Xavi: I would love Denis Suarez to take the no.6

Xavi: I would love Denis Suarez to take the no.6

Xavi Hernandez has stated that he hopes that new Barça signing Denis Suarez will be a success at the club and hopes the Spaniard will take his old no.6 shirt.

The 36-year-old - whose immediate future doesn't appear to point towards becoming the Blaugrana's next coach - said: "I'd be delighted [if Suarez wears the no.6], I know what it's like being a youngster in the first team and I wish him all the luck in the world."

Xavi also spoke about Lionel Messi after he was recently handed a 21-month sentence along with his father, Jorge, for tax fraud.

"All I want to say is that I hope [the situation] is solved as soon as possible for their sake. Messi is still the best player in the world."

On the future of 'La Pulga' in Catalonia, Xavi added: "We must respect what he decides, but I don't want him to leave the club.

"He has a contract [until June 2018], I see he's happy and I wish him all the best."

Soon, Xavi begins his second season with Al Sadd and is only looking forward and not worrying about his age becoming a factor just yet.

"I have a contract, I'm still enjoying playing football and competing," he concluded, "I'm fine, happy and content in Qatar."