In this May 20, 2019 photo, Qatar's Al-Sadd player Xavi Hernandez, former Barcelona and Spain midfielder, controls the ball during an AFC Champions League match at the Azadi stadium in Tehran, Iran. (VAHID SALEMI / AP)

MADRID — Former Barcelona midfielder and club legend Xavi Hernandez has explained the reasons he rejected the offer to replace Ernesto Valverde as the first-team coach at the Camp Nou Stadium.

Xavi's decline saw Barca turn to former Lugo, Las Palmas and Betis coach Quique Setien and Xavi gave the new coach his full backing

Barca spoke to Xavi after their Supercup defeat to Atletico Madrid a week ago, but the midfielder, who is currently coaching the Qatari club, Al Sadd, rejected the chance to replace Valverde.

Speaking in a press conference ahead of his club's game in the Qatari Cup final, Xavi confirmed that he had received an offer to become Barca coach, but added: "It is too early for me to coach Barcelona, although it is still my dream to coach Barca in the future."

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He confirmed he has held meetings with Barca's Director of Sport, Eric Abidal and CEO, Oscar Grau before rejecting the offer.

"First of all I told my family and then I told the Al Sadd players because they were all following what happened. I wasn't in the best of places for three days, but now I am totally focused on Al Sadd," he said.

Xavi's decision saw Barca turn to former Lugo, Las Palmas and Betis coach Quique Setien and Xavi gave the new coach his full backing.

"I love the new Barca coach. I love the way he works and I hope he is successful with the team," he said.