Barcelona boss Xavi calls Arsenal target ‘extraordinary’

Jacque Talbot

• Updated: 20 May 2023 12:46 BST
• 3 min read

Barcelona boss Xavi has called Martín Zubimendi ‘extraordinary’.

The La Liga star had been linked with a move to Arsenal, but now the Catalan has made his plans to bring in the Real Sociedad star.

Barcelona are looking to handle the exit of Sergio Busquets, who confirmed he would be leaving the club at the end of the season.

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The club wanted the veteran to stay for another season at least, but he opted to make haste and depart when his contract is up next month.

Xavi was asked about Zubimendi during a press conference, and he was full of praise.

He explained: “I consider Zubimendi as an extraordinary pivot, top player — he understands the game very well, he dominates with and without the ball.

“Zubimendi plays kind of football that we like here at Barca, it’s our style”. Xavi continued: “We must sign a pivot this summer, it’s a priority to have new player there following Busquets’ exit

Busquets confirms departure

Busquets has had a superb tenure with Barcelona, winning eight La Liga titles, seven Copas del Rey, seven Spanish Super Cups, and three Champions Leagues.

"Although it has not been an easy decision, I think the time has come," Busquets said.

"It has been an unforgettable journey," he added. "I always dreamed of playing with this shirt and at this stadium. Reality has exceeded all my dreams.

"It has been an honour, a dream, a source of pride, and it meant everything to defend and represent this badge for so many years.

"But everything has a beginning and an end. I want to thank all the people who made this possible, from the first day to the last."

Busquets joined the club in 2005 as a youth player and made the senior side under manager Pep Guardiola in 2008 against Racing Santander.