Andres Iniesta insists he’s fit for the Champions League final and wants to win it for departing teammate Xavi Hernandez.
Xavi is set for his last Blaugrana appearance, against Juventus in Berlin on Saturday, and Iniesta appeared at a Press conference on Tuesday at which he was asked about his long-time colleague’s impending exit.
“There is no doubt that would be perfect,” Iniesta said when questioned about the prospect of dedicating the trophy to Xavi, Sport reports.
“I think he’s had a spectacular season already but he can say goodbye lifting the Champions League. There’s no need for extra motivation but this is that.
“For me Xavi is the No 1. I’ve been fortunate enough to have him as a teammate and a friend and it’s been a privilege. Hopefully it ends as we hope it does.
“As for Andrea Pirlo, his career and how he plays are an example for any player. The numbers, the matches, the emotions, they speak for themselves and these are two beautiful players against each other. Pirlo is synonymous with good football.”
Regarding his own fitness, Iniesta moved to calm any doubts he wouldn’t be available for the fixture.
“I had some discomfort [in the Copa del Rey final] and nothing more,” he insisted.
“It wasn’t in my mind that I wouldn’t be able to play on Saturday. Hopefully I’ll be fine by then and be able to play, to achieve the long-awaited Champions League we want.”
