While Pep Guardiola remains eternally linked with Barcelona due to his significant association with the club, Joan Laporta, the club's president, does not envision Guardiola returning to Camp Nou in 2024 as the successor to Xavi.

With Xavi set to step down as head coach this summer after facing challenges in maintaining consistent performances and results during the 2023–24 season, Barcelona is on the hunt for a new manager.

Several names have surfaced as potential candidates, including Jose Mourinho and Hansi Flick, but Guardiola stands out as a popular choice among the demanding fanbase.

Despite Guardiola's historical ties with Barcelona, his return to the club in 2024 seems unlikely, according to Laporta.

He is, however, tied to a deal at Premier League giants Manchester City through to 2025 and Laporta has told RAC1 when asked if there is any chance of the Catalan native retracing steps to his spiritual home: “He has a contract with Manchester City and he respects contracts. I speak often with him and I know what the club thinks about him.”

Barcelona will not be rushing their next appointment, with Xavi set to see the season out even if major silverware proves elusive. Laporta added, “I want Xavi to continue until the end of the season. If he continues until the end, it’s up to him. I’m not going to sack him, no matter what. He doesn’t deserve it. He deserves that we trust him. We are not throwing in the towel in the league; in the Champions League, we face Napoli, but Xavi is very motivated. I have no doubts about Xavi and the motivation and commitment of the players. Xavi is honest and if the formula doesn’t work, he would say so.”

As it stands, Barcelona holds the fourth position in La Liga, trailing Clasico rivals Real Madrid by a significant 10 points at the summit. With three domestic games on the horizon, commencing with an away match against Alaves on Saturday, their focus now turns to the upcoming Champions League last-16 clash against Serie A giants Napoli, scheduled for February 21.