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 presented forward Vitor Roque to the press on Friday, although they did not take questions from the media for the 18-year-old. The Brazilian had arrived the previous week to begin training with his new teammates, and on Thursday made his debut with a 15-minute cameo appearance against Las Palmas.
Neither manager Xavi Hernandez nor President Joan Laporta were present, with Vice-President Rafa Yuste and Sporting Director Deco taking over institutional duties. Roque admitted he had only slept for four hours on arrival, following the trip back to Barcelona from the Canary Islands.
“This is a dream come true. I am very happy. This is a childhood dream coming true,” he began.
He was also asked about Xavi’s advice before he came on too.
“He told me to be calm. He told me to play and score a goal if I could.”
#FCBarcelona forward Vitor Roque was presented today. pic.twitter.com/xh8fJYHdkd
— Football España (@footballespana_) January 6, 2024
Teammate Ronald Araujo has backed Roque to have a positive impact for Barcelona this season, and Roque spoke highly of his teammates too.
“My teammates have received me very well, they told me to be calm. They have welcomed me in the best possible way.”
Xavi has been quick to point out that they do not want to put pressure on Roque, given his age, and the fact that he is moving halfway across the world. However with Barcelona struggling, and Robert Lewandowski short of goals, the temptation to use him will continue to grow, as happened against Las Palmas, until either of those situations changes.
Read on football-espana.net