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.
Xavi Hernandez is facing a key defensive call for Barcelona’s UEFA Champions League showdown with Napoli.
La Blaugrana play host to the defending Italian champions with the last 16 tie level at 1-1 following a first leg draw in Naples.
With Barcelona on course to secure a top four finish in the final weeks of the campaign, Xavi’s only route to a trophy lies in Europe this season.
Injuries in midfield will force a reshuffle in his engine room but he could also tweak his backline in Catalonia.
Ronald Araujo is expected to return to the starting XI, following a domestic suspension, but his centre back partner is not decided.
The experience of Inigo Martinez appears to be his preferred choice, but 17-year-old Pau Cubarsi could be a bold pick for a European debut, on the big stage a per Marca.
The teenager made his seventh successive league start in the 1-0 La Liga win over Mallorca, and has impressed with his calmness, and would not be fazed if thrown in against the Italians.
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