Barcelona boss Xavi has named the exact date he could step down as manager if struggles continue

Barcelona boss Xavi has named the exact date he could leave his role if the club's struggles continue.

Les Cules are currently nine points off the top of the La Liga table, although have played a game less than leaders Girona.

They also suffered a shock 4-1 defeat to Real Madrid in the final of the Spanish Super Cup in Saudi Arabia, with Ronald Araujo being sent off for two yellow cards at 4-1.

The defeat placed heavy pressure on Xavi, who needs to turn his team's form around quickly to retain the La Liga title that they comfortably won last season.

One area of salvation is in the Champions League, where Barca topped their group and will face Serie A holders Napoli in the last 16 stage next month.

Xavi has had to deal with plenty of turmoil during his time as manager, namely the club's perilous financial situation.

But failure to win a trophy this season would place his position under scrutiny given the high standards that have always existed at Barcelona.

Speaking after the defeat to Real, the legendary former midfielder stated bluntly that he will quit the club at the end of the season if those fears are realised.

He said: "This year, the objective is to win important titles. The Copa del Rey, La Liga or the Champions League.

"If the goals are not achieved, I will be the first to say that I did not achieve them, and I will leave."

According to Spanish outlet El Nacional, football super-agent Jorge Mendes offered Jose Mourinho to the club as a possible replacement for Xavi following his sacking by Roma.

Mourinho taking charge of Barca would cause controversy given his previous spell at Real Madrid.

However, he worked as assistant manager at the club when Sir Bobby Robson was in charge between 1996 and 1997.

In 2008, he was understood to have spoken with then Barcelona director of football Txiki Begiristain over replacing Frank Rijkaard - but the club's board decided to appoint Pep Guardiola instead.

Topics: Xavi, Barcelona, Football, Jose Mourinho, Real Madrid, La Liga

Ryan Smart

Live in constant hope of the top flight as a Preston North End fan. Written in the past for SPORF, GiveMeSport and more.