Xavi heading to Qatar after 24 years at Barca

Barcelona captain Xavi Hernandez has confirmed he will join Qatari side Al-Sadd this summer, ending his 24-year run with the Catalan giants.

The Spanish midfielder is the longest serving and most decorated Barca player, having joined the club at the age of 11. A World Cup winner with Spain, the 35-year-old has made over 500 appearances for the Blaugrana, clinching 23 trophies, including three Champions League and eight Primera Division titles.

“It’s a definite decision but a difficult one,” said Xavi. “I’ve been at the club for almost 25 years but this is the time for me to leave. My hope and aim is for one day to return to work for Barca.”