Xavi extends contract with Al Sadd as coach, says ‘We achieved a lot together’
XAVI Hernandez has signed a new contract as Al Sadd and expressed delight at extending his stay at the club.
The former Barcelona legend spoke of his aim to achieve more goals along with the players and the staff.
“We achieved a lot together, scored goals, won matches and titles, and we are all very proud of this success. Getting this kind of support is the best thing any coach can get,” said Xavi.
“I have everything I could want to do well, and I feel proud to continue with Al Sadd for an additional two seasons,” he added.
Regarding the rumours in the media about the existence of a clause in his new contract that allows him to leave at any time, Xavi said: “This is incorrect. I have a two-season contract with Al Sadd, and I respect this contract, and I also respect the official negotiation methods between all parties.
“Our challenge is to continue to improve and develop, and I am very excited to help Al Sadd players do that.”
Xavi took over the responsibility of coaching the Al Sadd first team in the summer of 2019. He has won 6 titles so far with the team, and has also reached the final of the 2021 Amir Cup.
The 41-year-old has guided Al Sadd to Qatar Stars League (2020-21), Qatar Cup (2020 and 2021), Qatar Super Cup (2019), Amir Cup (2020) and Qatar Stars Cup (2019) success since becoming coach.
Xavi’s signing of a new contract with Al Sadd puts an end to speculation linking him to La Liga giants Barcelona.
A Barca great, Xavi has long been tipped to return to Camp Nou as head coach - firstly before Ronald Koeman’s appointment at the start of 2020-21 and after Joan Laporta’s presidential election victory.
But Spaniard Xavi will remain in charge of Al Sadd until 2023.
Xavi spent 17 years with Barcelona, where he won eight La Liga trophies and four Champions League titles among other honours.
Xavi also held the record for most Barca appearances before it was broken by Lionel Messi this season.