Ronald Koeman’s recent departure necessitated the immediate appointment of a new manager. As of now, SergiBarjuan is the club’s interim manager, but he will only be in place for a few weeks. Xavi Hernandez is widely regarded as the long-term manager.
According to a report relayed by journalist Jose Alvarez via El Chiringuito, Al Sadd has specific demands from Barcelona before making any moves. The Qatari club reportedly wants Joan Laporta to fly there herself. If he fails to do so, they will be unable to let go of Xavi.
As things stand, he is the current president’s best and only option for manager. As a result, Laporta’s hands are tied behind his back, and he will travel to the Arab nation to find his next manager.
Al Sadd wants Laporta for more reasons than just Xavi. Barcelona’s current sponsorship agreement with Japanese company Rakuten expires next summer, with no hope of renewal. The Qataris have a plan because Al Sadd is sponsored by Qatar Airways. They are attempting to negotiate a possible contract with a shirt sponsor.
This is critical for Barcelona, especially given the city’s dire financial situation. If the deal goes through and Barcelona rekindles its partnership with the airline, it could help to alleviate some of their financial burdens.
