Former Barcelona captain Xavi Hernandez has been given a ‘Legend’ award by foremost Spanish sport paper, MARCA.
The award was given to the 35-year-old, who now plays for Saudi club Al Sadd, on Wednesday at a prize ceremony attended by members of his family.
Xavi, who started playing for the Barcelona first team at the age of 18 in 1998, played for over 17 years, and became the team’s captain in 2014 after the retirement of Carles Puyol.
Expressing his appreciation for the recognition, he said: “Thank you to everyone and particularly MARCA newspaper. To be named a legend is a big honour. I feel proud to take my place alongside all the other names that have received the MARCA Legend prize.”
Reflecting on his career, he said: “I never dreamed of having even half the career I’ve had when I started out at Terrassa. Back then I just wanted to enjoy my passion, because football is my religion. I’ve surpassed even my wildest dreams. I’ve really enjoyed myself out on the pitch and I feel privileged.”
Xavi was also an important player for the Spanish national team, helping them to win the 2010 FIFA World Cup, and the 2008 and 2012 Euros.
As a Barcelona player, he won 4 UCL trophies, 8 league titles, 3 Copa Del Rey, 2 FIFA World Club Cups, 6 Super Copa de Espana, and a host of other team and individual awards.
He went on to play over 700 games for the Blaugrana
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