Xavi Hernandez has revealed his ambition to manage in the Premier League and experience the 'passion and atmosphere' of English football.
The Barcelona legend, who is currently in charge of Qatari club Al-Sadd, has watched his former manager Pep Guardiola have huge success in England with Manchester City.
And Xavi says he would like to follow in Guardiola's footsteps by making the switch to the Premier League in the near future.
'I would be thrilled to work there,' he told The Times.
'Everyone tells me that the Premier League is wonderful, a great league to work in. First of all, for the passion with how they live the game. How they treat and respect you, the atmosphere and the stadiums.
'So why not? I could see myself in England, definitely, it’s one of the things I’d like to experience in my career.'
But the midfielder could have swapped Spain for England much earlier in his career. The 41-year-old revealed he was once approached by Manchester United but turned them down because of his love for Barca.
He added: 'Manchester United approached me once through Sir Alex Ferguson’s brother, but my answer was very quick.
Xavi enjoyed a 17-year playing at Barcelona, making an incredible 767 appearances with 85 goals and 185 assists. He also won 25 trophies including eight LaLiga titles and four Champions Leagues.
He was tentatively linked with the managerial role at the Nou Camp before Ronald Koeman's appointment.
'I was focused on Barca, my priority was only Barca. I am a fan from the very inside of myself and that’s why it was impossible for me to leave.'
Xavi signed for Al-Sadd in 2015 and took over as manager in 2019. Since becoming coach, the club have won six trophies, including two Qatar Cups.