Porto boss Sergio Conceicao join three-man race to replace Xavi

The tide is turning against Xavi Hernandez as Barcelona head coach, as the Catalan club is actively considering potential successors.

Hansi Flick and Rafa Marquez have emerged as primary candidates for the position, and now Porto manager Sergio Conceicao has joined the shortlist.

Reports by Diario AS, suggest Barcelona’s sporting director Deco recently met with Conceicao in Portugal to know his interest in the role.

Conceicao’s response was reportedly positive, leading to his inclusion in the list of potential replacements.

The 49-year-old is expected to leave Porto at the end of the season and was previously linked with the Barcelona job when Xavi first indicated he might step down.

Although Flick and Marquez are considered the leading candidates, Conceicao’s availability adds another viable option for the Spanish giants.