As he prepares to continue his revolution at Barcelona, Xavi teased the club's summer transfer ambitions, citing Manchester United's Cristiano Ronaldo as an example of age not being a barrier.
Xavi mentioned Cristiano Ronaldo as proof that age isn't a concern.
When it comes to summer additions, Xavi mentioned Cristiano Ronaldo as proof that age isn't a concern.
Asked about Barcelona's summer transfer ambitions, Xavi mentioned Cristiano Ronaldo while emphasizing that age isn't a concern.
Since his appointment in November, the Spaniard has led the Blaugrana to a spectacular turnaround, guiding them from 9th to 2nd in La Liga with only two games remaining. The 42-year-old looks likely to continue his revolution this summer by bolstering his squad, and the Barcelona manager has hinted at the type of player his team may pursue.
In recent months, the cash-strapped Catalan club has been extensively connected with prolific Bayern Munich striker Robert Lewandowski, as the 33-year-old Pole continues to delay over a new contract with the Bundesliga winners. When asked about the possibility of Barcelona signing an older forward, Xavi cited Manchester United legend Ronaldo as proof that age isn't a factor.
"When it comes to signing, age doesn't concern me...," Xavi said when asked about Barcelona's interest in Lewandowski. Dani Alves was recruited at the age of 38!
"Players are more professional and take care of themselves. Examples include Alves, [Zlatan] Ibrahimovic, [Luka] Modric, Cristiano [Ronaldo], and [Lionel] Messi.
Following Ronaldo's spectacular return to Old Trafford last summer, many wondered if the 37-year-old would still be able to make an impact in England's top division. The Portuguese superstar has subsequently silenced his critics, scoring 24 goals in 39 appearances for United this season, 18 of which came in the Premier League.
At the age of 37, Cristiano Ronaldo has scored 18 Premier League goals this season.
While such figures are outstanding, they pale in comparison to Lewandowski's accomplishments this season. This season, the 33-year-old has scored 49 goals in 45 games for Bayern Munich, helping the Bavarians win their 10th Bundesliga title in a row.
However, it appears like a change of scenery for the striker is on the cards in the near future. Lewandowski has yet to commit his future to Bayern, despite reports that he has already found a new club. His current contract expires in the summer of 2023.
Despite reports that Barcelona are interested in signing Lewandowski this summer, Bayern president Herbert Hainer recently stated that the striker will remain with the record Bundesliga winners next season. "Robert Lewandowski has a contract with Bayern until June 2023 - and he will fulfill it," Hainer remarked, according to transfer guru Fabrizio Romano.
The Bavarians are said to have communicated the same message to Lewandowski's agent, Pini Zahavi, but the declaration is said to have had little effect on Barcelona's desire to recruit the Pole this summer. While the striker is expected to join the Nou Camp, Frenkie de Jong is expected to leave.
The Dutch midfielder has been linked with a summer reunion with Erik ten Hag at Manchester United. Xavi insisted De Jong is still an important part of his ambitions, but added that due to the club's financial situation, some of Barcelona's current lineup may be traded to make room for newcomers.
"I've stated many times that Frenkie is crucial - he's a key player," Xavi continued. "Then there's the club's financial condition, which must be addressed. I'm not referring to Frenkie in particular."
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