Xavier Hernandez has returned to Barcelona as their new permanent head coach following the sacking of Ronald Koeman.

Koeman’s 14-month reign came to an end following Barca’s 1-0 defeat to Rayo Vallecano on October 27, with the Dutch tactician failing to convince the Camp Nou board of his long-term value to the cause.

Barca has now turned to another club legend, with World Cup winner Xavi completing an emotional homecoming as he takes the reins from interim boss Sergi Barjuan.

Al Sadd said in an official club statement: “Club administration has approved the transfer of Xavi to Barcelona after the payment of the value of the penalty clause stipulated in his contract.

“Xavi is considered an important part of our history and we wish him every success in the future.”

Xavi is one of the most decorated players in Barca’s history, having won 25 trophies at Camp Nou between 1997 and 2015, including eight La Liga titles and the Champions League.

The Spaniard made 767 appearances for the club, a record bettered only by Lionel Messi, and also contributed 85 goals and 185 assists.

Xavi left Barca for Al Sadd in 2015 and retired four years later before becoming the Qatar-based club’s permanent manager, and delivered the league title in his second season at the helm.