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Xavi set to retire at end of season to pursue a coaching role

Xavi, captain of Al Sadd, celebrates winning the 2017 Emir Cup at Khalifa International  Stadium on May 19, 2017
Image: Xavi Hernandez plans to hang up his boots next summer

Former Barcelona and Spain midfielder Xavi Hernandez is set to retire at the end of the season and is keen to pursue a coaching career.

The 37-year-old, who won eight La Liga titles and four Champions Leagues trophies at Barca, is currently captain of Qatari club Al-Sadd.

Xavi said his ability to recover after a game was declining and that was a factor in his decision.

"I've had luck not to be injured and I think my career has come towards its end, there's been a descent," he told Spanish newspaper Sport.

Barcelona's Xavi Hernandez and Andres Iniesta celebrate with the trophy after the UEFA Champions League Final football match against Juventus in June 2015
Image: Xavi Hernandez (left) has won a whole host of trophies in his career, including four European Cups

"Qatar allowed me this. Now I see myself being more tired, it's harder to recover, it will surely be my last year of being a footballer.

"I have the idea of getting my coaching licence next year and being a coach."

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Xavi collected 133 caps for Spain during a 14-year international career, winning the 2010 World Cup and the European Championship in 2008 and 2012.

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