02.01.2011 20:18

Xavi and Migueli, the other stars

www.fcbarcelona.cat

On Sunday, Xavi Hernández equalled Migueli’s record of 549 appearances for FC Barcelona. Migueli’s son took the honorary kick off before the match with Levante.

Xavi has now played as many games for Barça as another living legend, Migueli, and both players received hearty tributes on such a monumental occasion.

Migueli honoured

FC Barcelona first played tribute to Migueli, who did so much for the club over so many years. Tarzan, as he was known, was at the club for 16 years, and retired at the age of 38. Today, it was his own son who took the honorary kick off. Then it was over to Xavi, who currently ties with the great man, but will get the chance to break the record outright against Bilbao on Wednesday: his 550th game.

Migueli: "I wish Xavi all the best"

Speaking to ‘El Marcador’ on Barça TV, Migueli claimed that his legs were shaking and that he felt more nervous than he did on the day of his debut at the Camp Nou. “The merit is not to play 549 games, but to get better every day, dedicate everything to the club you love and feel happy for spending your life at Barça”. As for Xavi, Migueli sais “I wish him all the best. I’be been bettered by a world champion, a local boy and that’s an honour for me”.

Xavi: “I feel loved”

After the game, a clearly moved Xavi shared a few words with the fans. He said “I feel very loved. It is an honour to wear this shirt and I hope to wear it for many years more. Thanks to everybody, from my heart”.