Sports It's a shame Xavi is leaving Barcelona - Dani Alves

[Titilope Adeuja]

Barcelona defender, Dani Alves, has revealed that midfield mastero, Xavi, will not be playing for the Catalan outfit when the 2014/15 La Liga season kicks off.

There had been rumours of Xavi's departure since the arrival of new coach, Luis Enrique, and a possible destination from Camp Nou being Al Arabi as also revealed by the Qatari outfit's coach, Dan Petrescu.

Alves confirmed the veteran's imminent departure, putting an end to a 16-year career with Barcelona as reports had been rife of Manchester United and MLS clubs indicating interest in the 34-year old.

Alves said, "Yes, it's true, Xavi is leaving Barca.

"It's a shame. I'm sorry for Barca and with him goes one of my footballing idols."

Xavi graduated through to the first team, winning 22 trophies after debuting in 1998 in Barcelona's Super Cup final against Real Mallorca.