Barcelona legend Xavi has been strongly linked with becoming the new Chelsea manager, however he will not get the chance to rekindle his relationship with Joao Felix on the pitch.
Xavi is keen on managing in the Premier League, and has taken his time since his sacking in Spain to determine where the best project lies that he can take over.
Chelsea are on the lookout for a new permanent manager after parting ways with Liam Rosenior following just three months in charge.
Thiago Silva is all of us right now…
What’s the first thing that needs to change at Stamford Bridge?
Chelsea have already sold Xavi favourite Joao Felix
There is no appetite for the club to rush this decision. The owners and sporting directors will be feeling the pressure as supporters plan to continue protesting against them.
Xavi is on their list, and has previously worked alongside Marc Guiu from the current Chelsea squad, although had far more experience coaching Joao Felix.
UD Barbastro v FC Barcelona - Copa Del Rey
Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images
He was in charge when the Portugal international was on loan from Chelsea, and started to get results from a player who never managed to prove his worth at Stamford Bridge.
After playing a key role in a big win against Atletico Madrid, Xavi waxed lyrical about Felix and the impact he had on his side.
He told Portugoal: “He played a very good game, very important, especially when we didn’t have the ball. It was a game for him. He made a difference for us again.”
Predict Chelsea’s final four 2025/2026 results 😬
Will we win a game?
Chelsea's next four Premier League fixtures
Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images
Joao Felix thriving after getting Chelsea exit
Felix’s return to Chelsea lasted less than a season before he was loaned out to AC Milan, and permanently departed the club over the summer to join Al Nassr.
He has enjoyed a brilliant campaign so far, notching up a combined 30 goals and assists in as many games in the Saudi Pro League.
Felix has impressed in training since the outset, and his side currently sit five points clear at the top of the table in Saudi Arabia.
There will not be too many Chelsea fans actively wishing Felix would still be with the club, but maybe some wondering what might have been with Xavi in charge of him in West London.
Join Our Newsletter
Receive a digest of our best Chelsea content each week direct to your mailbox