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Barcelona captain Xavi says Champions League victory is the perfect way to leave the club

Xavi: Lifts the Champions League trophy in Berlin
Image: Xavi: Lifts the Champions League trophy in Berlin

Barcelona captain Xavi believes that winning the Champions League to complete a treble is the perfect way to leave the club.

Having started at the Catalan giants as an 11-year-old, Xavi will join Qatari side Al Sadd next season.

The 35-year-old came on in the 78th minute to set a new record of 151 Champions League appearances in Barcelona's 3-1 win over Juventus in the final in Berlin, which was the fourth time he had won European club football's most prestigious trophy.

"To leave this way is amazing, but I have a bit of nostalgia thinking I'm never going to play for this side again and I really wanted to lift the cup," said Xavi.

"We suffered a lot, because Juve put pressure on us, but Leo [Messi] popped up again.

"The side is sensational and Messi is outrageous."

The midfielder has also urged Luis Enrique to stay on as head coach as speculation over the former Roma boss’ future continues.

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"Luis Enrique deserves this because he's had a lot of criticism, but he's been a great leader for the side. The best thing for next year is for Luis Enrique to stay," added Xavi.

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On his final game for the club, Xavi is given the honour of lifting the Champions League trophy for Barcelona

Defender Gerard Pique said that Xavi was part of a "unique generation" at Barcelona that has overcome seasons without a trophy as well as enjoyed triumphs.

"Xavi deserves everything," said Pique. "He is leaving us with an important legacy: how to play football and take on victory and defeat. He will always be with us."

This was the fifth time Barcelona have been crowned European champions and it is their fourth Champions League title in the last decade after their 2006, 2009 and 2011 triumphs.

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