‘We decided not to stand in his way’ – Xavi set to become Barcelona manager

Former Barcelona star Xavi is set to take over as the club’s manager with Al Sadd saying they have agreed to allow him to join the Spanish giants.

The Qatari club had previously said their 41-year-old boss would not be allowed to leave.

Xavi, who played 779 games and won 25 titles with Barca, had said publicly he hoped “to go home” as Barca boss and that an agreement could be reached.

Al Sadd say Barca have paid the release clause in Xavi’s contract.

Xavi, a World Cup and two-time European Championship winner, left Barcelona for Al Sadd in 2015, first joining the club as a player.

Al Sadd said: “Xavi informed us a few days ago of his desire to go to Barcelona at this particular time because of the critical stage his hometown club is going through.

“We understand this and decided not to stand in his way.

“Xavi and his family will remain welcome in Doha, and our relationship will continue.”