David Villa: "Xavi Hernandez is the greatest midfielder of all time"

Spanish striker David Villa, who is currently playing his football in MLS with New York City, has labelled Barcelona's Xavi Hernandez "the best midfielder of all time." 

"It's a joy to have been able to know him as a person, to have been able to play by his side for so long with the national team and for three years at Barcelona," Villa told EFE. 

He added: "It was an honour. He is the best midfielder of all time." 

The former Barça forward confirmed he has spoken with Xavi since he played his last league game at Camp Nou for the club of his life.

He has played more games for Barcelona than any other player, but will now start a new era in Qatar with Al-Saad. 

"He's of our league, he's Spanish, he's played in the national team and in Barcelona, and the truth is it is an honour for everyone to have had him in our game," Villa continued. 

"I hope that things go really well in his new experience."