Manchester United have reportedly omitted Xavi from their potential list of candidates to replace Erik ten Hag.

Earlier on Monday, the Red Devils confirmed that they have parted ways with the Dutchman following a disappointing start to the season.

The Man United board ultimately decided that it was the right moment to make a change following Sunday's 2-1 defeat to West Ham United.

Man United have already been linked with a number of names as they begin their search to find Ten Hag's permanent successor.

Xavi has been mentioned as a potential candidate after it was previously reported that he had spoken to Man United on two occasions over the last few months.

Xavi makes Man United decision

However, according to journalist Richard Martin, Man United are not considering Xavi as a potential managerial candidate.

Xavi has essentially ruled himself out of the running, with the 44-year-old determined to complete his sabbatical after leaving Barcelona at the end of last season.

The former Barcelona midfielder managed the Catalan giants for two-and-a-half years before he left following a trophyless 2023-24 campaign.

However, Xavi did enjoy some success during his time in the Barcelona dugout, winning the league title and the Spanish Super Cup in 2022-23.

Xavi will see out the rest of his sabbatical before he makes an effort to return to football management ahead of the 2025-26 season.

Amorim emerges as Man United's top managerial candidate

While Xavi may not be in the running, it already appears that Man United have already identified Ruben Amorim as their number one target.

The Red Devils are believed to be working on a deal to prise the 39-year-old away from Portuguese giants Sporting Lisbon.

Man United are currently in talks with Sporting and are willing to pay Amorim's €10m (£8.3m) release clause to make him the next Man United manager.

Meanwhile, interim boss Ruud van Nistelrooy will be fully focused on matters on the pitch as he prepares the team for Wednesday's EFL Cup clash with Leicester City.