Lionel Messi has joined in with the tributes for Xavi, after he announced he would be hanging up his boots at the end of the season, with a heartfelt message to his former team-mates.
He wrote on Instagram: “It was a pleasure to share a dressing room with you, Xavi. We experienced a lot of moments together over many years, The truth is I’ve missed you since the day you decided to leave due to how you helped me on and off the pitch.
“You know that I wish you the best in the next stage of your life that begins now. I’m sure you will continue to be successful in everything you do in the football world. A strong hug!”
Xavi has talked about wanting to move into management after he’s done with playing, and there have been reports that he’ll have all his necessary coaching badges in time for next season.
It seems almost inevitable that the midfielder will return to the Camp Nou at some point in his managerial career, and there have already been rumors about where he might find himself next season.
The latest comes from Sport who reckon that Real Betis are thinking about Xavi taking over as their coach from Quique Setien.