Barcelona midfielder Ivan Rakitic has revealed his admiration for Xavi as he prepares for a new stage of his career with Qatari club Al Sadd.

Xavi came off the bench in Saturday's Champions League triumph over Juventus to make his final appearance for the club after securing his status as a Barcelona legend in a 17-year stay.

Rakitic's arrival last summer may have forced Xavi to accept a supporting role in his last season, but the Croatian was quick to pay tribute to the 35-year-old.

"It's been a pleasure, I'm very proud to have shared a dressing room with him," he told Al Primer Toque. "I don't need to explain what Xavi is for us. I've learned so much from him and I thank him for what he's done on and off the pitch."

Xavi will be presented to the media in Qatar on Thursday.

Written by
Callum Mulvihill