This week word came to light that ex-Barcelona midfielder and former captain Xavi Hernandez was approached by for the post of the Catalans’ manager but he refused the offer which Quique Setien then snatched up.
Since the end of his playing career, the Spaniard has been with Al Sadd where he hung up his boot continuing as a manager.
He claims Barcelona chief executive Oscar Grau and sporting director Eric Abidal offered him the position before Valverde’s sack on Monday.
“I did not agree to this offer, especially as it is too early for me to coach Barcelona,” said Xavi, 39.
“But it will still be my dream to coach the team in the future.”
Xavi, who made more than 750 appearances for Barcelona between 1998 and 2015, added that he “loves” Setien.
“I love the way he works and I expect him to succeed with the team,” he said.