MADRID – Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola believes playmaker Xavi Hernandez could go on to reach 700 games for the club after the Spanish World Cup star equalled the club’s all-time appearance record in Barcelona’s 2-1 win over Levante Sunday.
Xavi made his 549th outing in the famous shirt to draw level with legendary centre-back Migueli and at 30 the midfielder is set to go on and set a new benchmark for future generations to beat. “We wanted to win this game for him (Xavi),” said Guardiola.
“I played for many years here and reached 300 games which seemed a lot. If his tendons hold out I think he could reach 700 games.” Spanish World Cup winner Xavi, who came through the Barca youth system and made his debut back in 1998, refused to talk about future targets and believes one of his current team-mates will go on to break his record.
“I hope to continue here for many more years winning trophies,” said Xavi. “Behind me (in the appearance list) are Victor (Valdes), (Andres) Iniesta and (Carles) Puyol. “Victor (Valdes) and Andres (Iniesta) are still young (Valdes is 28 and Iniesta is 26) and I’m sure they can beat me, however, Carles (Puyol) is two years older than me, so it’s not so easy for him.”
