Xavi: "I'd like to see Buffon lift the Champions League trophy"

Xavi Hernández was involved in Qatar 2022 ceremonial acts this week which included the inauguration of the International Khalifa Stadium. He later spoke to AS and analysed the race for the league title. "I can't see Real Madrid letting the chance slip, they've been really strong all season. The game in Vigo was key and they came through with the win. I hope they slip-up against Málaga and Barça win the title but i genuinely feel that's complicated. Madrid has some fine players in the likes of Kroos, Modric and Isco".

Tricky game in Malaga

Xavi did add that the game against Málaga is no foregone conclusion: "Málaga are in great form and winning there is no easy task. Can I see Míchel helping Barça out? Why not, but we need a last day like that at Tenerife years back for Barça to retain their title. Defeats such as Alavés at Camp Nou and Deportivo in Riazor carry a heavy toll and only at the end of the season can one weigh up the overall campaign".

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Champions League preview

The current Al Sadd player is indecisive as who he deems favourite for the Champions League final in Cardiff. "Juventus are playing well and have an excellent side. They showed this in the tie against Barcelona and were impossible to break down. It's a toss of a coin as to who will win out. I read the other day that Buffon has never won the Champions League. He deserved this honour and I'd like to see him win the next Ballon d'Or".