Why did Xavi pay his release clause to Al Sadd himself?

Qatari club Al Sadd have made an official statement releasing former Barcelona captain, Xavi Hernandez as their manager and allowing him to join his former club Barcelona as manager to fill the vacant managerial position at the Catalan club.

There have been long days of speculation and negotiations since Ronald Koeman was sacked. It was clear from the beginning that Barcelona wanted Xavi and he also wanted to return to the club but he has a contract with Al Sadd which must either be negotiated or paid for him to leave.

Barcelona were only willing to negotiate but not ready to pay which has been a stumbling block in the deal. It was also reported that Al Sadd wanted Xavi to manage the game against Al-Duhail which eventually ended 3-3 before moving.

Xavi paid his own release clause of €5m to help facilitate the move due toBarcelona's financial struggles with the club still negotiating Koeman's severance fee. Xavi will not be the first Barcelona coach to do such, Ronald Koeman also paid his Dutch national team release clause to join Barcelona.