Xavi: Sergio Busquets understands football better than anyone

Xavi Hernandez says that Sergio Busquets is the player that understands football better than any other.

The veteran, leaving for Qatar at the end of the season, had high praise for the defensive midfielder.

"I've got a soft spot for Busquets in every respect," said Xavi. "He's a close friend and I think he's the player with the best understanding of football, both in attack and in defence, in the world.

"His game intelligence on the pitch is a wonder. And off it, I don't know anyone else whom I have the same affinity with. I think he's my natural replacement in the dressing room and on the pitch.

"He's destined to be the leader for Barcelona for the next decade, without a shadow of a doubt."