Xavi Hernández in Barcelona FC's new kit. | © Twitter (@FCBarcelona)
Xavi joined FC Barcelona’s youth team at age 11 and made his first-team debut in 1998. He helped the team win several titles, including La Liga and the Champions League. In 2015, he moved to Qatar to play for Al-Sadd and later became their manager. He retired in 2019 and returned to Barcelona as the manager in 2021.
Personal Information
| Name | Xavi Hernández |
|---|---|
| Age | 44 years (25 January 1980) |
| Height | 170 cm |
| Weight | 68 kg |
| Nationality | Spain |
| Role | Midfielder |
| Club | Former players |
| Position | Midfielder |
Xavi Hernandez – The Maestro of Midfield
Early Life and Childhood
Xavier “Xavi” Hernandez Creus was born on January 25, 1980, in Terrassa, Barcelona, Spain. Growing up in a family that loved football, Xavi fell in love with the game early. His father, Joaquim Hernandez, was also a professional footballer. Xavi’s journey in football started in the youth teams of the local club, FC Barcelona.
FC Barcelona Youth Academy – La Masia
Xavi joined La Masia, the famous youth academy of FC Barcelona, known for producing many great players. With coaches like Johan Cruyff, Xavi developed his skills as a midfielder known for his accurate passing, vision, and game understanding.
FC Barcelona Debut
Xavi debuted for FC Barcelona’s first team in 1998 under manager Louis van Gaal. He became a key player under the guidance of managers Frank Rijkaard and later Pep Guardiola. Xavi and Andrés Iniesta formed a partnership that became central to Barcelona’s success.
Guardiola Era – Tiki-Taka and Domination
Under Pep Guardiola, FC Barcelona played “Tiki-Taka” football, which focused on quick, short passes and keeping possession. Xavi was crucial in controlling the game’s pace and leading the midfield, helping Barcelona win many La Liga titles, UEFA Champions League trophies, and FIFA Club World Cups.
Spain National Team – Euro 2008, 2010 World Cup, and Euro 2012
Xavi was a key player for the Spanish national team during a historic period. He helped Spain win UEFA Euro 2008, their first major international trophy. The success continued with the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa, where Xavi’s skills guided Spain to their first World Cup win. He also played a significant role in Spain’s victory at Euro 2012.
Individual Awards and Continued Success
Xavi’s outstanding performances earned him many individual awards, including multiple nominations for the FIFA Ballon d’Or. Throughout his career at Barcelona, he consistently showed his world-class talent as a midfielder.
Later Career – Al-Sadd and Qatar
In 2015, Xavi left Barcelona and joined the Qatari club Al-Sadd. Even in the final stages of his career, he continued to display his football intelligence and leadership. Xavi also started coaching while in Qatar.
Return to FC Barcelona – Coaching Role
In January 2020, Xavi returned to FC Barcelona in a coaching role. However, due to various reasons, including the COVID-19 pandemic, he did not become the manager.
Off the Pitch and Personal Life
Off the field, Xavi is known for his humility, professionalism, and dedication to football. He has been involved in charity work, especially in education. Xavi is married to Nuria Cunillera, and they have two children together.
Legacy
Xavi Hernandez is remembered as a master midfielder and one of the best playmakers in football history. His vision, passing accuracy, and ability to control the game’s tempo set him apart. Xavi played a major role in FC Barcelona’s golden era and Spain’s international victories, making him a football legend. He continues to influence the sport in his coaching career, further securing his place in football history.
Xavi Hernández Records
Xavi holds 22 different titles, a club record, and is the only player to have won the Spanish league seven times.
His titles include:
- 7 La Liga titles: 1998/99, 2004/05, 2005/06, 2008/09, 2009/10, 2010/11, and 2012/13
- 3 UEFA Champions League titles: 2005/06, 2008/09, and 2010/11
- 2 Spanish Cups: 2008/09, and 2011/12
- 2 European Super Cups: 2009/10 and 2011/12
- 6 Spanish Super Cups: 2005/06, 2006/07, 2009/10, 2010/11, 2011/12 and 2013/14
- 2 FIFA Club World Cups: 2009/10 and 2011/12
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Barcelona appoint Hansi Flick as manager to replace Xavi.
FC Barcelona and Hansi Flick have reached an agreement for the German to become men’s first team football coach until 30 June 2026.
Xavi Hernández retired from professional football in May 2019.
Núria Cunillera is the wife of Spanish footballer Xavi Hernández. She is known for her private life, keeping a low profile despite her husband’s fame. The couple got married in 2013 and have children together. Núria has a background in journalism and public relations.
