With the news that Barcelona midfielder Xavi Hernandez has retired from international football, JOE can’t help but get a little nostalgic.
This is the end of an era for Spain as their little legend Xavi has, for years, been a seemingly-constant presence in midfield alongside the equally excellent Andreas Iniesta, creating one of the standout footballing partnerships at both club and international level.
He has had some fantastic moments in the Spanish shirt over the last decade or so and, while the World Cup in Brazil did not go swimmingly for him or his compatriots, he will undoubtedly be remembered as a legend of international football.
To celebrate his career, JOE has trawled through the archives to bring you some of his moments of brilliance for Spain… with a little smattering of Barcelona thrown in as a bonus.
Have a look below and enjoy…
He scored this fantastic free-kick against Saudi Arabia in 2012…
Video via MrWhite1950.
This compilation of his passes from Euro 2012 is very impressive…
Video via Marar Safin.
Although this video is of him playing for Barcelona, just watch these assists; they remind us of Michael Carrick… just kidding.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VfZidFwTTIU
Video via Just Sport Videos.
His wonderful piece of skill against Uruguay in the Confederations Cup last year…
Video via dervyx3.
Just to prove that he is human after all…
Video via SoccerFootball Fail.
