Xavi arrives in Barcelona ahead of Camp Nou return

New Barcelona coach Xavi has touched down in Spain for his emotional return to Camp Nou.

After a deal with his former side Al-Sadd was reached on Friday, Barcelona were kind enough to wait until the early hours of Saturday morning before confirming Xavi as their head coach.

Shortly after the announcement, Xavi hopped on a flight from Qatar to Spain, and SPORT captured the moment he touched down in his homeland.

He arrived alongside assistants Oscar Hernandez, Sergi Alegre, coach Ivan Torres and analysts David Prats, Toni Lobo and Sergio Garcia. Physiotherapist Carlos Nogueira joins at a later date.

"Dear Culers, I'M COMING HOME," Xavi wrote on Instagram.

"I'm going back to the place that saw me grow up. I go back to the Club of my LIFE. I cannot describe in words the emotion I feel to once again defend this badge that I carry in my heart, to fell again how Camp Nou shakes from within, and to hear the cries of encouragement from these great fans one again.

"I know I am coming at a difficult time, but I face this challenge with the greatest of hopes. I will work and fight like one of you to get to the place we deserve. Thanks to Barcelona for trusting me again, and all the fans who believe I should take on this important role.

"THE STORY CONTINUES..."

President Joan Laporta is already planning for Xavi's first transfer window in charge and is understood to have made plans for three new signings.

Among those on the wish list are former Villarreal striker Cedric Bakambu, now of Beijing Sinobo Guoan in the Chinese Super League, and Bayern Munich winger Kingsley Coman.