Al Sadd coach Xavi has ruled out a return to Barcelona - for the next TWO YEARS.

In a heavy blow to Barca presidential candidate Victor Font, Xavi has announced he doesn't intend to leave Al Sadd until after the 2022 World Cup.

He told Goal: “While the time will come for me to take a new step in my coaching career, for now I am trying to make the most of my time here and make the most of the opportunity to play a small part in the Qatar's exciting journey towards 2022."

Xavi had been confirmed member of Font's ticket ahead of next month's election with it expected he would be replacing Ronald Koeman as Barca coach.