As Barcelona continued to search for Xavi Hernandez replacement, their former player Rivaldo has urged the club to forget about the return of Pep Guardiola and instead appoint Jose Mourinho as their manager.
Xavi Hernandez has announced that he will be moving on at the end of the season with the club linked with numerous managers.
Topping the list of those linked with the vacant post is Pep Guardiola who is currently the manager of Manchester City.
Speaking to BetFair (h/t FourFourTwo), Rivaldo urged Barcelona to forget about the return of Pep Guardiola and instead appoint Jose Mourinho as their manager.
“I do not see Guardiola joining Barcelona anytime soon. I think the only realistic chance would be when he wants to move back home and enjoy more family life, which is easier for him in Barcelona, and can coach the team at the same time.
“So today it depends a lot more on him, but I think it’s very difficult for next season. He’s doing well in England, and I think this return would also depend on the financial state of the club, and if they can bring players in for Guardiola.
Rivaldo argues that Mourinho is currently available, knows the club and La Liga, and has a lot of experience.
“There are many fans who do not accept players or coaches who played for or managed their rival team. But Jose Mourinho has already been at Barcelona, with Sir Bobby Robson, and he is a great person,” he said.
“Of course, his intensity as a coach, and sometimes being controversial with his own fans could be a concern from the beginning, but he is a winner.
“Considering that he is without a club and the situation at Barcelona, in my opinion, it is easier for him to join the team than Guardiola right now, and I think it would be a great signing for Barcelona, even though some fans don’t like the name.
“Without a doubt, he would do a great job, he knows the team, the Spanish league, the Champions League and has a lot of experience.”
Mourinho has been without a job since being sacked by AS Roma earlier this season and it’s not feasible he’ll be considered for the vacant post at Barcelona.
