This is Xavi the manager: Man United target is strong in defence and developing young stars but with one big flaw in his style of play, writes Spanish football expert PETE JENSON

Join Mail+ to read Man United Confidential every Tuesday, plus more exclusive scoops, in-depth coverage and analysis from Old Trafford Xavi at Old Trafford would certainly be box-office. Former Barcelona boss Xavi has been linked with the Man United manager's job Xavi led Barcelona to their first LaLiga triumph of the post-Lionel Messi era in 2023 Barca - with Marc-Andre ter Stegen between the sticks - conceded just 20 goals in 2022-23 Fans demanded fewer 1-0s, more style, and another big trophy in Xavi’s second season. Xavi's shortcomings as a manager were exposed in Barcelona's Champions League defeat by Kylian Mbappe's PSG last season PSG were happy for Ronald Araujo to have the ball and he was sent off in the first half of the second leg after bringing down Bradley Barcola Things unravelled in Xavi's second full season at Barcelona as he struggled to keep his emotions in check Calmness was missing too often from Xavi’s demeanour. It looked like the neighbouring minnows might even pip Barca to second spot under the guidance of the impressive Michel Sanchez, whose team had also beaten Xavi’s men 4-2 in the reverse fixture. Xavi is strong at developing young talents, and handed Lamine Yamal his senior debut Xavi was also happy to bring teenage defender Pau Cubarsi into the first team, but doubts remain over his managerial skills Some coaches, particularly those managing abroad, can be blissfully unaware of simmering doubts, or dark manoeuvrings against them.