Lionel Messi: Xavi is the best player in the history of Spanish football

The 35-year-old Barcelona stalwart will make his final appearance for the Catalan outfit on Saturday when they take on Juventus in the Champions League final in Berlin.

Xavi, who spent his career at the Nou Camp after starting with the Blaugrana’s youth side in 1991, has agreed to join Qatari side Al-Sadd after his playing time at Barcelona ends on Saturday.

Xavi has the chance to further cement his position as a club legend by winning the second treble of his Barca career if Luis Enrique’s side can negotiate their way past Juventus in Germany.

And Messi has paid tribute to the midfield maestro, describing Xavi as the greatest ever Spanish player.

“Xavi, it’s difficult to describe him as a player – everybody in the world knows what he can do on the field,” Messi said.

“He’s a player who dictates the rhythm of the game, he can put the ball where he wants, he reads the game excellently. It’s been a pleasure to play alongside him for so long and to be able to enjoy his football – not just in games but in training sessions as well.

“He is the best player in the history of Spanish football – I think that says everything.”