MY ACCOUNT
Barcelona boss Xavi has revealed he was offered a role as part of Brazil’s backroom team ahead of the World Cup, but turned it down to hold out for the top job with the Blaugrana.
The former Spain international succeeded Ronald Koeman last year in charge at Camp Nou, and has helped to revive fortunes at the Catalan side since his arrival.
Though his team have slipped into the Europa League for a second season running, they remain competitive in the domestic top-flight, sitting two points ahead of rivals Real Madrid at the World Cup break.
Xavi has revealed he was approached by Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) president Rogerio Caboclo over a role with the Selecao during his time in charge at Al Sadd, but that he turned them down to hold out for Barca.
“It was an opportunity [that came] through the president of the CBF,” Xavi told ESPN.
“They [came] to Qatar, and they talked to me, [and asked if] I could be part of Tite’s staff.
“But I wanted to be a coach, not an assistant. My desire was to be a coach.
“It would be a tremendous opportunity – it was [a chance] to make history, to be the first European to work in the Brazilian national team.
“But, at that moment, it did not happen. I was clear that I wanted to be coach of Barcelona, which was my dream, and here I am.”
However, Xavi teased he would not rule out taking up the chance if it was offered again, adding: “You never know. It would be a spectacular opportunity.
“But my intention was to take over Barcelona. You never know about the future [though]. I’m working hard, and you can’t rule anything out.”
