Former Barcelona
and Spain midfielder Xavi Hernandez is set to retire at the end of the
season and is keen to pursue a coaching career.
The 37-year-old, who
won eight La Liga titles and four Champions Leagues trophies at
Barcelona, is currently captain of Qatari club Al Sadd.
Xavi, renowned for controlling play from a central position, said his ability to recover after a game was declining.
“I’ve
had luck not to be injured and I think my career has come towards its
end, there’s been a descent,” he told Spanish newspaper Sport.
“Qatar
allowed me this. Now I see myself being more tired, it’s harder to
recover, it will surely be my last year of being a footballer.
“I
have the idea of getting my coaching license next year and being a
coach.” Xavi collected 133 caps for Spain during a 14-year international
career, winning the 2010 World Cup and the European Championship in
2008 and 2012.
Xavi Hernandez
