Barcelona boss Xavi says he is growing tired of comparisons between himself and Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola.
Xavi played under the Catalan coach while he was manager at the Nou Camp and some have suggested he has tried to adapt his own version of Guardiola’s methods during his own tenure.
He guided the Spanish giants to the La Liga title this season although stumbled in Europe, bowing out of the Champions League group stages before succumbing to Manchester United in the Europa League knockout play-offs.
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Xavi has been lauded for his defensive abilities, Barcelona so far conceding just 18 goals all season while keeping 26 clean sheets going into the final weekend.
Speaking ahead of the curtain-closer with Celta Vigo, Xavi hit back at comparisons between him and his former boss.
“The figure of Guardiola is weighing me down as a coach," Xavi told Catalan outlet TV3. "I don't think it's fair [to constantly make the comparison]. It happened to me when I was a player as well. Everyone has to turn the page."
Xavi was one third of the iconic Barcelona midfield trio with Andreas Iniest and Sergio Busquets that dominated domestic and European football during Guardiola’s reign. Busquets will play his final Barcelona game on Sunday as he hangs up his boots for retirement.
Guardiola sent a video message to the player to congratulate him on a stellar career, which includes a World Cup, European Championships, nine La Liga titles and three Champions Leagues.
The City manager said: “You and I know what this business is about; these grounds in Catalonia. Congratulations on your career at Barca, which we love so much.
"I know you'll be a coach sometime. I challenge you to be on the bench. We'll be face-to-face and you'll have no chance!
“It was a pleasure to be with you for five years and congratulations again. All the good things that happened to you, you deserved it all. A big kiss.”
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