World Cup

Xavi calls for "time and patience" at Barcelona

By Matt Law, Football Editor | 21 November 2022

Barcelona boss Xavi calls for "time and patience" at Camp Nou and explains the importance of currently sitting at the top of La Liga.

Barcelona boss Xavi has called for "time and patience" at Camp Nou, with the team's former midfielder attempting to navigate the club through a difficult period.

The Catalan outfit have again failed to qualify for the last-16 stage of the Champions League, and they will instead face Manchester United in the Europa League knockout round playoffs.

Barcelona, who still have financial problems, are currently at the top of La Liga, though, sitting two points clear of second-placed Real Madrid, with the two sides now not back in action until the end of December due to the 2022 World Cup.

Xavi has opened up on the importance of sitting at the top of the table, as it brings "calm in the environment".

"In the Champions League we haven't made the grade but we need time and patience," journalist Victor Navarro quotes Xavi as saying at a public event.

Barcelona boss Xavi on August 13, 2022 © Reuters

"But we are on the right track in La Liga, we are leaders and we are very excited. It is very important to be the leaders, for the calm in the environment."

Xavi was also asked about his thoughts on the World Cup, and he picked Brazil and Argentina as two of the favourites for the competition, which got underway on Sunday.

"I see Brazil as very strong, with Neymar at the helm, and Argentina with Leo very motivated. I see Brazil and Argentina a step above," he said.

The former Barcelona midfielder also lavished praise on his ex-teammate Lionel Messi, who is bidding to help Argentina win the trophy this winter.

Argentina's Lionel Messi scores their fourth goal on November 16, 2022 © Reuters

"For me, there is no discussion about that. Messi is the best in the world and in history, whether he wins the World Cup or not," said the 42-year-old.

"I see Leo as very strong. In the last six months, we have seen the best Messi again and he will make a difference. [Lionel] Scaloni is doing very well. Argentina and Brazil will reach the semi-finals or the final. I wish them luck."

Xavi is also expecting Spain to advance "a long way" at the World Cup under the leadership of Luis Enrique.

"I'm going to Qatar and I'll watch the Spain-Germany match. Luis Enrique can go a long way in this World Cup," he added.

Xavi made 133 appearances for Spain between 2000 and 2014, winning the 2010 World Cup and two European Championship crowns in 2008 and 2012.