Could Xavi stay at Barcelona?! Sporting director Deco leaves door open to club legend continuing as manager despite resignation

In January, Xavi revealed that he would leave the club at the end of the season, citing a need for change as the reason for his impending departure. It has since emerged, though, that the Blaugrana board would be open to him staying and aren't undergoing a search for a new manager.

Deco, the Blaugrana's sporting director, told Catalunya Radio that Xavi might stay, saying: "We are not making any decision about the future coach because it is early and we have many things ahead of us. If something changes, I will not say that we cannot raise it. We have nothing against him. It is not a decision that the club or the sports management has made. At the moment, there is no such possibility; if it happens, we will discuss it."

Barca have enjoyed a resurgence of late. The Blaugrana are undefeated in the six matches since the disgruntled manager announced his resignation, and would appear to have a good chance of advancing to the Champions League quarter-finals with their two-legged tie against Napoli balanced at 1-1.

Xavi, for his part, has suggested that his mind is made up; he will depart in June. Still, Barca are yet to start their search for a new coach - despite being linked with a number of high-profile managers.