Goodbye to a legend: Xavi will leave Barcelona for Qatari side Al Sadd

Goodbye to a legend: Xavi will leave Barcelona for Qatari side Al Sadd

The end of Xavi's era at Barcelona is now a reality. The legendary centre-midfielder will play next season for Al Sadd in Qatar, taking €10million a season, according to Stade Doha.

Xavi is the player that has played the most games in the history of Barcelona, with 16 seasons in the first team. At 35 years old, he has decided to leave the Blaugrana and join the project of Al Sadd. 

The midfielder will form part of the first team squad but also help out as an advisor to the Aspire Academy, which is trying to train players with a view to competing in the Qatar World Cup in 2022. 

He will sign for three seasons, taking €30m, with the option for a season more. Xavi had other offers, including from the MLS, but he chose Qatar. The player will also study for his coaching badges while in the country. However, Xavi will not announce his decision until the end of the season.