Barcelona manager Xavi has backed Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad bin Jaber Al Thani to be a success at Manchester United.
The Qatari billionaire is one of the bidders to buy the club and has pledged to make United debt-free.
There are alternative offers too and debate has been raging in the press over who would be the best owners for the club.
Most of this discussion has been based around Sheikh Jassim’s background rather than actually who he is as an individual, with not much known about his personal aims beyond his statement of intent.
Xavi backs Sheikh Jassim
Barcelona manager Xavi discussed the prospective Manchester United owner in his press conference ahead of the Europa League game.
Xavi played for Qatari side Al Sadd for four years and managed them for two years and his time in the country brought him into contact with Sheikh Jassim.
He told the Belfast Telegraph via PA Sports: “I have a good relationship with the Sheikh and he’s a serious, responsible person and I think he would do a good job.
“I know him so well. I think he’s a very good person with responsibility, serious.
“I think it would be a very good option for United.”
Xavi is a respected figure in the world game and has spent extensive time in Qatar. His comments are reassuring and very noteworthy.
The Sheikh’s offer is expected to be the most financially lucrative for United, and in the eyes of many, this is what matters as it would put the club in the best position to succeed.
United want a responsible and sensible owner, however, and that is more important than simply having money, as Todd Boehly is demonstrating at Chelsea so far.
Xavi’s comments suggest the Sheikh may take a more measured, methodical and balanced approach, and if he is approved to be the club’s new owner, the future looks bright.
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