Xavi Hernandez - a legend of world football, a Spanish player who became one of the most influential and technically gifted players of his generation. He was born on January 25, 1980, in Terrassa, Spain, and displayed his football talent from a young age. Xavi became renowned for his outstanding passing skills and ball control. He possessed a unique ability to control the game on the field, distribute passes, and create attacks for his team.
He began his professional career in 1998, joining the youth team of Barcelona. Over time, he became an integral part of Barcelona's main squad and a product of the legendary La Masia academy. He spent 17 years at FC Barcelona, eventually becoming its captain and one of the main inspirations behind the "tiki-taka" style of play.
Xavi helped Barcelona win numerous domestic and international trophies, including 8 La Liga titles and 4 UEFA Champions League titles. He became the heart and soul of the team, and his on-field leadership was invaluable to Barcelona's success during that period. Xavi is also a key figure for the Spanish national team. With the national squad, he won the FIFA World Cup in 2010 and the UEFA European Championship in 2008 and 2012.
His intellectual approach to the game and his ability to create opportunities for his teammates made him an irreplaceable player for the national team. After leaving Barcelona in 2015, Xavi moved to Qatari club Al-Sadd, where he continued to showcase his skills and leadership. He helped the team win several national titles and became a symbol of football development in Qatar.
In addition to his playing career, Xavi has shown an interest in coaching. He has completed coaching courses and expressed a desire to one day manage his former team, Barcelona. Xavi Hernandez is not only a player of exceptional class but also a symbol of virtuosity, game reading ability, and leadership on the field. His style and contribution to world football will be remembered by generations of fans.
Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti on Tuesday backed his Barcelona counterpart Xavi Hernandez to turn things around after a difficult spell.
The Spanish champions have struggled for form in recent weeks and sit fourth in LaLiga after a 1-1 draw at Rayo Vallecano on Saturday.
Barcelona face a crucial Champions League group game against Porto later on Tuesday, aiming to reach the knockout rounds after two consecutive early eliminations.
Ancelotti said he had no advice to offer Xavi, whom he believes possesses the capability to get Madrid's bitter rivals back on track.
"Xavi, like me, knows football very well, and there is criticism," Ancelotti told reporters.
"Sometimes it can happen, but Xavi has the experience to manage all this.
"He knows the atmosphere (around Barca) and I think he has everything he needs to manage the situation."
Group H leaders Barcelona can guarantee progress to the knock-out rounds with a win over Porto, who are second and level with them on nine points.
The Catalans are still without first choice goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen, who missed the Rayo draw with back pain.
Real Madrid have already qualified for the last 16 and lead Group C by five points ahead of Napoli.
Ancelotti's team host the Italians on Wednesday and a draw would guarantee them top spot.
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