Ralf Rangnick lined up for first club job since leaving Man Utd, they 'really like' him

Ralf Rangnick is being lined up to make a surprise return to club management, say reports.

The 65-year-old, who is currently in charge of the Austria national team, endured a difficult six-month spell as interim manager of Manchester United, where he picked up just 11 wins from a possible 31.

He clashed with numerous players in that time, including Cristiano Ronaldo, but the experienced head coach was expected to move into a two-year consultancy role until Erik ten Hag had his say.

Away from Old Trafford and the experienced head coach is well respected in his native Germany following spells at Stuttgart, Hannover 96, Schalke 04, Hoffenheim and RB Leipzig.

He has also won plaudits after successfully guiding Austria to this summer's European Championship after they beat Azerbaijan in October to ensure a second-place finish in Group F.

Rangnick's stock is rising. In fact, Barcelona have identified the German as a contender to replace Xavi, who will leave the Camp Nou at the end of the 2023/24 campaign.

Spanish publication SPORT suggest Barca president Joan Laporta 'really likes' Rangnick, but they also namedrop Jurgen Klopp, Hansi Flick and Julian Nagelsmann as other possible candidates.

The former Manchester United interim is, however, contracted to Austria until 2026.

Last month, Xavi delivered some parting shots in a brutally honest press conference after he confirmed his departure.

The 44-year-old, who was appointed as the manager of Barcelona in November 2021 following the departure of Ronald Koeman, has won 78 games out of a possible 125 during his turbulent reign at the Camp Nou.

He helped the Spanish club to a historic La Liga title last season, pipping rivals Real Madrid to the post by an impressive ten points.

But their lack of progress in the Champions League has been a huge talking point.

“I will leave Barcelona in June," he said. "We have reached a point of no return. It's time for change. As a Culé, I think that it's time to leave. I spoke with the board and the club today. I will leave on the 30th of June.

"Everything will be calmer now, we can compete for the Champions League… at least with this decision you [the press] won’t kill me anymore. The club will improve with this decision."