Messi explains how Xavi is the man to take Barcelona to next level

The FC Barcelona legend has backed his former teammate to restore the club’s glory days.

Lionel Messi is confident Xavi Hernandez is the right man to take Barcelona to the next level.

The 41-year-old, who succeeded Ronald Koeman as the club’s new manager this month, began life in the Camp Nou dugout with a 1-0 win over Catalan rivals Espanyol in La Liga on Saturday.

His arrival has already made a positive impact, with full-back Jordi Alba recently claiming his former teammate has given him ‘extra motivation’.

“Xavi is a coach who knows a lot, who knows the house perfectly, who knows everything well since he was a child,” Messi told Marca. “He is a very important person for the young people and that he is a person who will make Barcelona grow a lot, I have no doubt.”

🗣️ Lionel Messi: “Xavi will make Barcelona develop, he knows the club perfectly.” pic.twitter.com/XkUSshLmzd

— Barça Worldwide (@BarcaWorldwide) November 23, 2021

Will Messi return someday?

Barcelona president Joan Laporta recently refused to rule out a return for Messi and Andres Iniesta after two fan favorites Xavi and Dani Alves reunited with the club.

Messi added: “I always said that I would return to Barcelona because I want to help the club in what I can and obviously if I can help the club in what I mean, I would love to be able to return.”

Xavi takes charge of his second game as Barcelona manager on Tuesday at home to Benfica in the Champions League. For match details and betting tips, check out the link here.