Barcelona sporting director Deco has dismissed the possibility of hiring Pep Guardiola as Xavi's replacement this summer. Xavi confirmed earlier this year that he would depart the Spanish giants at the end of the season after three years in charge.
The 44-year-old had hoped for a better outcome with Barca, but failed to win titles with the club in his previous two seasons.
With the search to appoint a new manager underway, Guardiola has been linked with a possible return to the Nou Camp. The Spanish boss coached Barca for four years between 2008 and 2012.
However, Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta is said to be one of the preferred candidates for the job along with Jurgen Klopp. The latter announced earlier this year he would depart Liverpool at the end of the season after nine years in charge. READ MORE: Erling Haaland injury latest as Man City striker delivers positive update amid training scare ALSO READ: Man City have found the partnership that could win them the treble - but it's not perfect He went on to win every top-level trophy available at Anfield including the Champions League in 2019 and the Premier League the following year.