Spanish legend Xavi Hernandez will replace Ronald Koeman as head coach of Laliga giants Barcelona.

Xavi’s appointment was confirmed by the Qatari club Al Sadd on their Twitter handle on Friday.
Xavi is the permanent replacement for Koeman who had been under pressure since last season.

His position became untenable with a defeat in El Classico against Real Madrid last month followed by a shock loss at Rayo Vallecano three days later – a result which saw Koeman sacked.

The club then elevated their former left-back Sergi Barjuan – coach of the club’s B team – into the position as interim boss to guide the side in the matches going into November’s international break.

The statement by Al Sadd read:” The administration agreed on the transfer of Xavi to Barcelona after paying the penalty clause stipulated in the contract.

“We agreed with Barcelona on practical cooperation in the future, Xavi is an important part of the history of the club.