Xavi Hernandez paid homage to Lionel Messi after the Argentine equalled Raul’s Champions League record of 71 goals.
Messi struck twice at the Amsterdam Arena as Barcelona recorded a deserved 2-0 win over Ajax to ease their path into the knockout stages of the competition.
“I’m happy for Leo because of the work he does for the team and because he is number one, the best,” Xavi told Canal Plus immediately after the match.
“Leo has a free role along with the others up front, but they also have some important defensive work to do.
“At this club we all work and when we all work the team functions.”
Xavi felt Barca struggled during a difficult first half but came to terms with the game after the break, while remaining true to their normal style.
“In the first half they had control but in the second half we were better, but we got three important points to give us confidence.
“We needed the win and we enjoyed ourselves at times but, like I said, we did struggle because we were playing away from home and this is the Champions League.
“Therefore, you have to tighten up, and that’s normal. But it confirms what kind of a group we are.
“Our style is what you saw and what you’ll keep on seeing. You don’t just change it because of a defeat.
“If you lose you have to remain true to it. The style is the same as always and Luis Enrique has imposed it,” he insisted.
