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 manager Xavi Hernandez told the press that the decision on their players returning from injury would be made just hours ahead of El Clasico, but in theory, they were all available.
Jules Kounde, Pedri, Frenkie de Jong, Robert Lewandowski and Raphinha all returned to full training on Thursday, despite the fact that only the Brazilian was expected to be fit for the match. Sport claim that Raphinha is in good condition, but is likely to only be used off the bench, rather than from the start.
Lewandowski however had ‘good feelings’ according to Xavi, and the Catalan daily claim that he is likely to be good to go from the start. The Polish striker injured his ankle ligaments against Porto, and was expected to be out for another week, but it appears he will force himself into shape for the game.
There has been plenty of speculation over who Barcelona will have fit, whereas Real Madrid are dealing with far more certainties. Carlo Ancelotti confirmed Jude Bellingham would be fit, while Dani Ceballos, Arda Guler, Eder Militao and Thibaut Courtois are all expected to miss out.
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