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.
Barcelona coach Xavi Hernandez said on the eve of his side's visit to San Mames in the Copa del Rey quarter-finals that he believes "in the honesty" of referees, but that he does not like "the pressure they are under".
"I talk about the referees because you ask me. I like to talk about the game, but you saw and heard it. You analyse it yourselves and I'm sure we'll all agree. It's time to talk about football, the news is in Madrid, not here," replied the Catalan coach when asked again about the Real Madrid-Almería refereeing.
Xavi even downplayed the fact that the 'Merengues' TV channel responded to his criticism of the refereeing by saying that his 600 games as a 'Cule' were "under suspicion", in reference to the 'Negreira affaire'.
"I have always respected Madrid. I have never disrespected anyone and, if I have done so, I have apologised. I don't like wars, I'm a peaceful man, I respect opinions, videos, memes... everything, and I take it with humour", he concluded.
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