Xavi confident Guardiola will renew Barcelona contract

Barcelona midfielder Xavi Hernandez said Tuesday he was confident that coach Josep Guardiola will renew his contract with the European champions before it expires at the end of the season.

“I can’t imagine Barca without Guardiola. He is a fundamental part of the team and I think the extension of his contract is imminent, but it depends on him,” said the 29-year-old Spanish international.

“We would like him to extend his contract but it is up to him. I think he wants to stay, that he feels at home here. He is possibly the best coach in the history of the club and he has only been here one year.”

Guardiola, who turned 39 on Monday, took over from Dutchman Frank Rijkaard in June 2008 after being promoted from his job as coach of Barcelona’s B side.

Under his guidance during the 2008-09 season the Catalan side won the Champions League, Spanish league, the Kings Cup, the Spanish Supercup and the European Supercup.

Last month Barcelona also won the Club World Cup final with a 2-1 win over Argentine side Estudiantes.