Barcelona's next manager? Thiago Motta responds to speculation he could replace Xavi at Camp Nou

Motta, who started his playing career at Barcelona and spent eight years at the club, responded to speculation about him replacing Xavi as the new manager of the Catalan club next season. After the club's 5-3 defeat at the hands of Villarreal on Saturday, Xavi announced that he would leave the manager's role at the end of the current campaign.

Speaking about Xavi's decision to quit Barcelona to Sky Sports Italia, the former Italy international said, "That is sad, he was doing a great job and won the title last season. I saw Jurgen Klopp announce he was leaving Liverpool. Coaching is a tough job, but it is the one we chose."

When asked about his future at Bologna, Motta added, "When there is news to report, I will tell you, but there’s none today."

After guiding the Catalan giants to a Spanish Super Cup triumph and La Liga title last season, things went downhill for the former Spain international. Speculation regarding his future with the club started doing the rounds after Barcelona failed to defend their Spanish Super Cup title after losing 4-1 to Los Blancos in the final. Earlier this week, the club bowed out of the Cope del Rey following a humiliating 4-2 defeat at the hands of Athletic Club.

The loss against the Yellow Submarine has increased the Blaugrana's gap with league leaders Real Madrid to 10 points. They will be next seen in action in La Liga on Wednesday when they face Osasuna.