Ronald Koeman's Barca sacking could happen earlier than we could imagine, as per the latest reports.
Let's draw up a list of possible Koeman successors at Blaugrana.
Xavi
The 41-year-old is apparently the best-positioned candidate to take over.
Xavi's Qatari side Al Sadd have just begun their 2021/22 campaign, winning the first game of the season. The Blaugrana legend's contract is said to include a special 'Barca clause' allowing him to leave for the Catalans anytime.
The legendary midfielder has won 6 trophies since becoming the Al Sadd boss in 2019.
Jordi Cruyff
The son of iconic Johan Cruyff is currently Barca's adviser of management but his main role could change shortly after Koeman's departure.
On Wednesday, El Chiringuito's Jota Jordi reported that Cruyff would actually be Barca's interim manager if Koeman was sacked.
Apart from managing a few Chinese sides, Jordi Cruyff also coached Israeli team Maccabi Tel Aviv, leading them to 29 wins in 50 games.
Erik ten Hag
The pride of Ajax has recently extended his contract with the Eredivisie champions but his Barca future isn't ruled out completely.
It's unlikely that he leaves his current club any time soon but he's definitely among the leading candidates to take over in 2022.
Ten Hag almost led Ajax to the Champions League final in 2019. He has won 5 domestic trophies since 2017.
Marcelo Gallardo
The River Plate hero has been linked to Barca on several occasions already.
Despite his outstanding achievements in South America, he has never managed a European side yet.
Since 2014, he has claimed 12 trophies with River, including 2 Copa Libertadores cups.
