Barcelona were excellent as they thrashed Royal Antwerp in their opening Champions League match this season, and Xavi has now singled out a player for particular praise.
Goals from Joao Felix, Robert Lewandowski, Gavi and an own goal secured victory, but Xavi was particularly impressed by a player who neither scored nor assisted.
Speaking after the game, the manager highlighted summer signing Ilkay Gundogan for his performance in the middle of the park, expressing his gratitude that the club managed to sign a player of his quality.
“Gundogan makes everything better, It’s like he’s landed from heaven,” he stated.
“We play better with that kind of footballer in the team. He’s a superb player.”
Gundogan’s impact at Barcelona
Landing Gundogan this summer was something of a coup for Barcelona. The 32-year-old arrived on a free having just captained Manchester City to the treble, and was one of their best players under Pep Guardiola.
His influence last season saw him score a number of crucial goals, including a brace in the FA Cup final, but is yet to score in six games for Barcelona so far.
Despite this, he has been a crucial cog in the Barcelona machine, linking the defence to the attack well, and helping provide creativity to the attackers. Until yesterday he had played in a box-to-box role alongside Oriol Romeu, but against Antwerp he dropped back into a deeper role and excelled.
The midfielder is still one of the best in the world in his position, and Barcelona will lean on him for experience and quality throughout the season.
During his time at Man City he proved himself to be the man for the biggest occasions, always stepping up to deliver when his side needed him, and Xavi will hope that he can have a similar impact in Spain as Barcelona aim to retain La Liga and progress in the Champions League.