As he continues to be linked with the vacant managerial post at Barcelona, a video of Xavi explaining the style of play and tactics he has instilled at Qatar club Al Sadd will give fans an insight into his fascinating footballing brain.
The Catalan club have endured a disappointing start to the 2021/22 campaign. After picking up just four wins in their opening 10 La Liga games, Barcelona decided it was time to relieve Ronald Koeman of his duties following a 1-0 defeat against Rayo Vallecano on Wednesday night.
Club president Joan Laporta is now on the lookout for a suitable replacement and numerous reports suggest they want to appoint Xavi as their new manager. In fact, the Spaniard is already believed to be in negotiations with his former club.
So what type of football will Xavi bring to this struggling Barca side? In a wonderful 'masterclass' with The Coaches' Voice's YouTube channel, the 41-year-old gives an insight into the style of play he has looked to install in his first job as a head coach.
As explained on the Coaches Voice website, he explains his commitment to the possession game and discusses the strategies he has employed against both a high press and, as is more often the case with Al Sadd; a deep-lying low block.
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He also talks about the necessity of numerical superiority, both in possession and out of possession, and the importance of winning the second ball. "[The team should] enjoy having the ball and generate numerical superiorities in attack after a defensive phase with high pressure," he says.
The former Spain international, who appeared in 767 matches for the Catalan giants over a 17 year period, also reflects on the change in mentality he has looked to develop in his players - one where they treasure the ball rather than play in fear of it.
Do you think Xavi is the right man for the job at Barca? He certainly sounds the part.
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Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
Featured Image Credit:Topics: Xavi, Football, Barcelona, Ronald Koeman, La Liga
