Former Barcelona star Xavi believes that there is no one who can take over the mantle once Lionel Messi calls it a day from the beautiful game.
In a recent interview with Sport, Spain and Barcelona legend Xavi spoke about his former teammate Lionel Messi, and how football would be once the Argentine decides to hang his boots. The 35-year-old also gave an insight into Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo and the constant comparisons drawn between the two the players.
He stated:
“For me, there is no heir to Messi. There will never be one. There will be very good footballers, but nobody at Messi’s level.
“To be at the top for so many years, winning so many individual and team trophies, will be impossible to surmount. In the future, everything will be more equal amongst the best players.”
Xavi also believes that there is no comparison between Messi and Ronaldo, and that the two are the best in the business. He also dropped in a few names who would be at the top after Messi decides to end his career.
“Though now they try to sell the story of the Cristiano and Messi battle, those of us who know football, know there is no comparison.
“When Messi ends his career, there will be Neymar, Hazard, five or ten players at a similar level, but none with the unquestionable superiority of Messi.”
The former Barca midfielder sent a clear message to the club, advising what they should do in order to keep Leo at Camp Nou for a number of years, and also gave his take on whether the recent problems off the pitch will have affected the Argentine star.
“I don’t think so. How much time has he had to deal with the case? Two or three years now? And he is still the best in the world, making the difference and putting it in the top corner.”
“He is happy in Barcelona, I’m not saying he’s not bothered by some off the field issue, but on the pitch he is still the same player,” he added.
“It is great to have Messi, and he needs to be kept happy and content.
“Above all, all these issues need to be resolved as soon as possible, so he can start from a clean slate.
“But really, it doesn’t affect him. If there is someone mentally strong, that person is Messi. He has overcome it all.”
