FC Barcelona president Joan Laporta has surprised everyone by announcing the return of Xavi Hernández, although only temporarily. The former player and coach of the club will participate in the Barça Legends match against Real Madrid Leyendas. This event will be held on December 15 in Tokyo, Japan and has sparked great expectation.
Xavi's Return
Xavi Hernández, one of the great icons of FC Barcelona, left professional soccer in 2015. After his retirement, he dedicated himself to a career as a coach, occupying the first team's bench until last season. Although his return to the field wasn't expected, he will participate in this special Barça Legends event.
This match will not be competitive. It is a friendly encounter in which several former players from both teams will face each other in a symbolic clash. Xavi's return, although temporary, has caused a lot of stir among fans.
The Match in Tokyo
The match between Barça Legends and Real Madrid Leyendas will take place on December 15 at the Ajinomoto Stadium in Tokyo, Japan. The match will kick off at 2:00 p.m. local time (6:00 a.m. Barcelona time). This will be the first time these teams have faced each other in Japan, which increases the excitement of the event.
This will be the second consecutive match between these two historic teams. The first will take place in Doha, Qatar, on November 28. Fans of both clubs will be treated to a soccer show featuring some of the most beloved figures in recent history.
The Protagonists of Barça Legends
Xavi will not be the only star player in the Barça Legends squad. He will be joined by Andrés Iniesta, who recently retired from professional soccer.
This match will be their official farewell in an event that has been dubbed "The Last Dance." In addition, the team will feature Javier Mascherano, Rafa Márquez and other former players who made history at the club.
In addition to Xavi, Iniesta, Mascherano and Márquez, other big names from Barcelona will also be taking part, such as Rivaldo, Bojan Krkic, Ludovic Giuly, Adriano Correia and Gaizka Mendieta. These players will be reunited under the direction of Albert Ferrer for this match full of nostalgia.
Real Madrid Legends
Real Madrid will also have some big names in its lineup. Players such as Roberto Carlos, Luis Figo, Iker Casillas, and Steve McManaman will be present at this event.
Many of these players have not faced the Barça Legends for more than ten years, which will make the match even more special.