The dreams of NYCFC fans hoping to see Xavi at the Yankee Stadium have been definitively crushed. According to Spain’s Diario Marca, the Spanish midfielder has agreed to join Qatari team Al-Sadd. Xavi, 35 years old, will be following in the footsteps of New York Cosmos striker Raul, a former teammate of Xavi’s on Spain’s national team.
The move, a two-year deal for $32.4 million with an option for a third season, would seem to cement the fact that Xavi is not coming to New York. In Qatar he will have the opportunity to combine his professional career with a track to eventually coach.
Xavi nearly joined NYCFC last summer before a call from Barcelona coach Luis Enrique convinced him to stay at home, where he debuted in first division 17 seasons ago.
One of the most decorated Spanish players, Xavi will be ending his contract with Barca on June 16 with a record of 751 appearances and 25 titles.
In the absence of David Villa, NYCFC lost 1-0 to Sporting FC last Saturday in the second match of the season.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-OGXmm9C4kk