Barcelona's Xavi reveals coaching plans after playing career concludes

Barcelona's Xavi reveals coaching plans after playing career concludes

Published Nov. 20, 2014 6:49 a.m. ET

Barcelona and Spain great Xavi is already looking ahead to a career in coaching after his playing days come to an end.

The veteran midfielder is under contract with Barca until June 2016.

"I don't have much time left to play, I am 34 and will turn 35 in January," Xavi said to Catalan TV station TV3. "I want to enjoy this stage and get as much from it, everyone tells me that it's the best one."

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Xavi retired from international football this summer after 14 years defending the Spain colors and earning 133 caps.

He won European Championships in 2008 and 2012 and in between the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.

"After retiring I would like to coach and learn English," Xavi said. "I don't know what the future will bring but I would like to be remain in football, and of course, with Barcelona."

Xavi came close to leaving Barca this summer with tempting offers from a Qatari club and several Major League Soccer outfits.

However, the talented midfielder decided to remain in his all-time club.

"We thought that perhaps it (this summer) was the best time to leave the club but in the end, the heart takes over," Xavi said.

Xavi has made eight league appearances, four as a starter, for Barca this season.

Barca, coached by Luis Enrique, are second in the Primera Division, two points adrift of league leaders Real Madrid.

The Catalan outfit has already qualified for the knockout round of the Champions League having won three of its four Group F games.

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