Former Barcelona and Spain midfielder Xavi decided to retire at the end of the season, ending a historic 21-year career. The 2010 World Cup-winner will now become a coach, adding he is excited to see "what the future holds".
"What I have achieved in the last two decades has been a privilege," he said. "Therefore, I believe it is my duty to take the initiative of the field and return through football whenever possible."
In a statement released to Spanish news outlet AS, he added: "My philosophy as a coach reflects the style we developed for many years under the influence of Johan Cruyff and La Masia, and that has its greatest exponent in the way of playing football in Barcelona.
"I love seeing the teams take the initiative in the field, attack football and return to the essence of what we all love from our childhood days: possession football."
The 39-year-old, who currently plays for Qatari club Al Sadd SC, won eight La Liga titles and four Champions League trophies while at Barcelona. i addition, the Spanish legend scored 13 goals in 133 appearances for Spain
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