Xavi Hernandez has spoken of his respect for Real Madrid goalkeeper Iker Casillas amid speculation he is leaving Santiago Bernabeu.
The former Barcelona playmaker has been interviewed by AS with the discussion centring on the Spain set-up, and Xavi, now of Al-Sadd, was asked about his old national team colleague’s club situation.
“I don’t understand. Casillas is a symbol, an icon of Madrid, and when he has been jeered in his own stadium it has bothered me a lot,” he said.
“I neither understand nor accept it. Casillas has given so much to Madrid and to the national team. I have a special affection for him, as well as admiration and respect. I hope everything goes well because we have been friends for many years. We suffered and celebrated together with Spain.”
