3 players Xavi convinced to join Barca named – Deco ruled them out

Xavi managed to convince players like Joshua Kimmich, Bernardo Silva and Martin Zubimendi to join Barcelona last summer, according to Cadena SER.

However, Barca's sporting director Deco ruled out their signing after informing Xavi that the club was in no financial position to afford such players.

To beef up their midfield, Barcelona turned to the free agents market and signed Ilkay Gundogan with Oriol Romeu arriving later for €3m.

Xavi has been left to make do with teenagers as injuries continue to affect his squad. This season, Barca have played several games without Frenkie De Jong and Pedri through injury. Meanwhile, Gavi is currently ruled out for the rest of the season.

Xavi cited the toxicity of being Barca manager as one of his reasons for leaving, but it's also possible he left because he believes he doesn't have enough tools to deliver what Barca fans and directors are clamouring for.

Bayern 'worried' Barca wants to sign Kimmich for free