FC Barcelona legend Xavi Hernandez has pinpointed one player he believes should be the club's next leader and it's not Argentina captain Lionel Messi.
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The 35-year-old believes Spanish midfielder Sergio Busquets should become a key figure for the Catalan club in the future, both on the field and behind the scenes.
"I'm a huge fan of Busquets and he's a very close friend," Xavi told Marca.
"He's in game-changing, match-winning form, setting up goals, getting his hands dirty and putting the opposition under pressure in their own half.
"He has to step up and lead this Barcelona team over the next few years, both out on the pitch and in the dressing room."
The Al Sadd midfielder also shared his views on this coming weekend's El Clasico and feels his former team is in poll position to win it.
"Based on their most recent league performances, Barcelona look the stronger of the two teams going into the game, but you never know what might happen during a Clasico," he added.
"Barcelona are on an outstanding run of form, even with Messi out injured. The team are doing a really, really good job and there is plenty of competition for places. They look great to me.
"I hope Messi will be fit for the Clasico for entertainment's sake and that of the game itself. Football cannot afford to not have Messi out on the pitch."
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Do you think Busquets is ready to become a leading figure at Barcelona? Have your say in the comments section below.
