Luis Enrique Welcomes Xavi Appointment As Barcelona Manager

The Blaugrana secured the release of their former midfielder from his contract at Qatar Stars League side Al Sadd on Friday and announced him as their new boss on a deal that will run until the summer of 2024 a day later.

Enrique managed Xavi during his final season as a player for Barcelona in the 2014/2015 season, when they won a famous treble and he has backed his former protégé to come good at the Camp Nou.

"It was almost an announced rumour that Xavi would have the chance to come back to his home. Hopefully he will have a great time there, hopefully he will be able to win many things with Barcelona," Enrique said at a news conference while announcing Spain's squad for their upcoming international fixtures.

"It's true that I have been in the dressing room at lot at Barcelona, but also at ​​Sporting [Gijon] and Real Madrid. And as a coach I've also been in many dressing rooms.

"But in this one, specifically, Xavi has been there much more than me. I think he will almost be able to give me tips."

Xavi led Al Sadd to win the Qatar Stars League in the 2020/2021 season. Xavi won seven trophies as manager of Al Sadd in total.

Xavi won eight La Liga titles, four Champions League trophies, three Copa del Reys among other honours during his time as a player at Barcelona.

He also won two European Championships and the 2010 FIFA World Cup with Spain.