Xavi tops Barcelona's list to replace Valverde

Barcelona's loss against Atletico Madrid in the semi-finals of the Supercopa de Espana has the alarms sounding at the Camp Nou.

Their latest collapse has shaken the club, who are now looking ahead and planning for Ernesto Valverde's successor, though he hasn't yet been dismissed.

Immediately after the game it seemed as though sacking him now was an impossibility, but with more time having passed now his position on the bench is looking less assured than ever before.

Whether he sees out the campaign or not, Valverde's days at Barcelona are limited and the club are already making plans to have someone else in place next season.

One of the names linked with the job is Xavi Hernandez, who has even met with Eric Abidal and Oscar Grau in Doha recently.

Xavi's club Al Sadd, though, have ruled out a departure at this current point.

The former player is a huge part of their recent history, was a key member of that sextuple winning side and understands the club's DNA, as well as having a good relationship with presidential candidate Victor Font.

But Xavi isn't alone in being linked to the job and some other recognisable names are also in the hat.

Ronald Koeman

The Dutchman has been clear that he can free himself from his duties as Netherlands boss if the Catalans want him and his good work with the national team hasn't gone unnoticed.

Roberto Martinez

The Belgium boss is also well placed after doing well in international football. He guided the Red Devils to the semi-finals of the World Cup and has had them sitting top of the FIFA world rankings for a year as well.

His fluency in a number of languages and his experience of dealing with elite players also work in his favour.

Additionally, Martinez would be open to the idea of joining Barcelona after completing a World Cup and European Championship cycle with Belgium.

The Thierry Henry option

Though it's more unlikely, the former forward is someone whose name has been spoken about at the Camp Nou.

His philosophy and time there as a player has him well regarded at the club and although he's a little inexperienced, he's another who is under consideration.