Xavi "glad" to have stayed at Barcelona

Experienced midfielder Xavi has revealed that he is "glad" he turned down the chance to leave Barcelona last summer.

By his own admission, Xavi came close to departing the Catalan outfit at the end of last season, with a move to MLS side New York City FC believed to be within hours of completion.

The 35-year-old remained at Camp Nou, however, and has made 26 appearances in all competitions for Barca this season.

"I'm glad I didn't leave last summer," he told reporters. "I'm lucky enough to have been at the best club in the world. I've been in the first team for 17 years and, together with the years in the academy, that's nearly 25 years here, which makes me very proud."

Barcelona currently top La Liga by one point from Real Madrid.