Crystal Palace are reportedly considering a bold move for former Barcelona boss Xavi Hernandez as they plan for life after Oliver Glasner, according to reports coming out of Spain.
With Glasner expected to depart at the end of the season, Palace have begun drawing up a shortlist of potential replacements. The club are said to admire Xavi’s footballing philosophy, as well as his track record of developing and trusting young players.
Xavi has been without a club since leaving Barcelona at the conclusion of the 2023/24 campaign. He is understood to have rejected several approaches since then, including interest from Saudi Pro League outfit Al-Ittihad back in September.
Palace monitoring Xavi situation
Spanish outlet Fichajes claims that Xavi has been patiently waiting for the right opportunity, prioritising a project that offers stability and the freedom to implement his ideas. A switch to the Premier League is thought to appeal to the former Spain international, who previously spent two years in charge of Al-Sadd before returning to Barcelona in June 2021.
During his three seasons at the Camp Nou, the 45-year-old delivered La Liga and the Spanish Super Cup in the 2022/23 season. Despite being under contract for another year, he was relieved of his duties in May 2024, shortly after being convinced by club president Joan Laporta to remain in the role when he had initially planned to step down.
Widely praised for his footballing intelligence, Xavi enjoyed a glittering playing career at Barcelona that spanned 17 years and included four Champions League titles and eight league championships.
Glasner preparing to leave Selhurst Park
Palace are planning ahead after Glasner opted against committing his future to the club beyond the current campaign. According to GIVEMESPORT reporter Fabrizio Romano, the Austrian is expected to leave once his deal expires in the summer.
Glasner arrived at Selhurst Park in February 2024 as Roy Hodgson’s replacement and has enjoyed a successful spell, guiding Palace to FA Cup and Community Shield triumphs. The Eagles currently sit ninth in the Premier League after 17 matches, six points behind fourth-placed Liverpool.
January transfer plans taking shape
Alongside their managerial planning, Palace are also assessing attacking reinforcements ahead of the January window. Tottenham winger Brennan Johnson is among their targets, while Manchester City youngster Oscar Bobb has been identified as a more affordable alternative. City could be open to Bobb’s departure should they complete a move for Antoine Semenyo.