Xavi Hernandez admits he feels ‘privileged’ to have been able to play alongside Lionel Messi at Barcelona.
The Argentine has returned to his heady heights since the turn of the year, and his long-serving colleague says the experience of watching him perform in training and on the pitch still humbles him.
“[Lionel] Messi is the best player in the world today and, for me, who ever existed,” he told DEPORTV.
“Since turning 22, he’s been the best. His development and what he’s doing are amazing.
“At 27, he still has a huge future. He can only compete with himself because he has no rival.
“It’s a privilege to be able to see what he does in training and matches.
“I was lucky to experience the most successful period in both Barca’s and Spanish football’s history.
“Pep [Guardiola] revolutionised world football with his style of play.”
