Barcelona president: 'Xavi will return'

Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu has claimed that legendary midfielder Xavi will "return home" to Camp Nou at some point in the future.

The 35-year-old a trophy-laden 18-year stint in Catalunya this summer by joining Qatar-based Al Sadd on a three-year deal.

However, Bartomeu says that the Catalans' former captain - who helped them win the treble last season - has more chapters to write in his Blaugrana career yet.

"Xavi left this summer and deserved the goodbye he was given," the recently-appointed president is quoted as saying by Marca.

"But he will return home. He hasn't finished his Barca career and has a lot more to contribute."

He won eight La Ligas, four Champions League titles and three Copa del Reys throughout his Barcelona spell.