The Barca and Spain midfielder Xavi, has spoken on Spanish radio of his desire for Rijkaard to continue as Head Coach at Barcelona. The Dutch coach has been increasingly linked with a move out of Barcelona in the summer. Coupled with a very public row with striker Samuel Eto’o, the pressure is now on the Barca coach.

Xavi said “me and the rest of the team want him to stay. He has the team under control and the complete respect of all of us”. Rijkaard has guided Barcelona to two La Liga titles and last seasons Champions League title, during his current reign at Barca. However, if he does decide to move on, he has been linked with a possible return to his former club Milan.