Xavi praises Hansi Flick’s Barcelona and picks his Ballon d’Or favourite: ‘We also did our bit to help this generation’

Former Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez has lauded the work being undertaken by Hansi Flick during his tenure at the club. Reflecting on his own coaching experience, Xavi highlighted the emergence of a talented generation of players currently propelling Barcelona forward. Speaking to SPORT after assuming the role of Netherlands national team manager, Xavi discussed the progress of the Catalan giants, the rise of youngsters like Lamine Yamal and Fermin Lopez, and his prediction for the next Ballon d’Or winner.

Xavi expressed his delight in Flick's work at Barcelona, praising the German coach's impact on the team. He noted that the club has built a strong squad around a core of young talent, with several players who progressed significantly under his management now key members of the first team. Xavi acknowledged that his own coaching efforts contributed to the development of these players, stating that even a small contribution in helping to turn the club around after a challenging period over the past two decades is cause for pride.

When asked about the connection between Barcelona's current success and the work done during his time as manager, Xavi refrained from claiming direct credit. Instead, he emphasized the satisfaction of witnessing young players flourish at the highest level, such as Lamine Yamal, Fermin Lopez, Pau Cubarsi, and many others who have gone on to achieve international success.

The former Barça boss was pleased to see these players thriving and credited the collective efforts of the coaching staff and players for the club's current standing.

Turning the conversation to the prestigious Ballon d’Or award, Xavi backed Lamine Yamal as the frontrunner. While acknowledging Lionel Messi's impressive performance during the World Cup, Xavi believed that a Spanish player should win the award after the national team's triumph. However, he also expressed confidence in Yamal's ability to secure the title, noting that the 19-year-old's remarkable campaign makes him a strong candidate for the prestigious accolade.