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.
Joao Mendes – son of Barcelona icon Ronaldinho – has joined Xavi Hernandez’s first team squad for training this week.
The 19-year-old joined Barcelona in March 2023, following his breakthrough at Brazilian side Cruzeiro, and he has remained with the youth team system this season.
Mendes made his debut for the Juvenil B side at the Mediterranean International Cup last year and has since progressed into the Juvenil A set up.
That pathway has continued with reserve sessions at the start of 2024 and now a chance with the main panel.
Xavi’s options are significantly reduced due to an exodus of players away on international duty this week and Mendes has stepped in to make up the numbers in training.
As per reports from Marca, the versatile forward is not expected to remain in Xavi’s plans for the rest of the campaign, unless the situation changes.
Xavi has opted to promote players from the academy this season and more injury issues could see Mendes promoted.
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