By now, it has been well established that Barcelona are ready to replace Xavi Hernandez by bringing in Hansi Flick.
The German tactician was supposed to be unveiled early this week, but it appears there has been some unprecedented delay.
As things stand, Barcelona fans eager for the official announcement of Hansi Flick as their new coach may have to wait a bit longer.
Why is it taking so long?
According to RAC1, two key hurdles are delaying Barcelona’s planned announcement of Hansi Flick as the new coach.
Firstly, Barcelona is still finalizing the financial terms of Xavi Hernandez’s departure. The club wants to negotiate a buyout agreement with Xavi to avoid paying his full remaining year of contract.
However, finalizing a buyout before officially appointing a new coach weakens their bargaining position.
Secondly, La Liga’s Financial Fair Play regulations pose another challenge. La Liga requires clear documentation regarding buyout agreements when processing a coaching change.
If Barcelona declares Xavi’s departure as a dismissal before securing a buyout agreement, La Liga might force them to pay the full contract value, a financially undesirable outcome.
La Liga does allow for a change of coaches, but with limitations. Having exceeded the spending limit, Barcelona must offset any additional costs through future financial adjustments or repayments. This was the case with Xavi’s recent contract renewal.
Barcelona are looking to mete out these problems as soon as possible, with the report pointing to a crucial meeting that will be held between Xavi’s agent, Fernando Solanas and sporting director Deco.
The meeting will aim to reach a mutually agreeable buyout amount for Xavi, clearing the path for Hansi Flick’s official appointment.
It must be noted that Xavi has reportedly agreed not to demand any salary for the remaining period of his contract, but he might push Barcelona to pay the pending salary of his support staff.
