Xavi Believes He Was Better Midfielder Than Gerrard & Lampard But Not Real Madrid Icon

When you consider the greatest midfielders to play the game, it’s hard not to include Xavi right at the top of the list. The Barcelona legend carved out a fantastic career for himself over the course of 22 years as a senior player.

Spending most of his time at the Camp Nou, the Spaniard is fondly remembered for the devastating partnership he formed alongside Andres Iniesta and Segio Busquets, two players who are also among the finest to play in the engine room. He has a resume to back up any GOAT claims too, lifting La Liga silverware 11 times while at Barca, as well as four Champions Leagues.

When debating those who could possibly hold a candle to Xavi’s ability, there aren’t many who surpass him. But the man himself believes that a Real Madrid icon was better than him.

Xavi Thinks Real Madrid Legend Was Better Than Him

In a video posted to Reddit, Xavi was asked to stay quiet until he heard a player who was better than him. The two interviewees picked out some huge names, including modern-day professionals like Kevin De Bruyne and Alexis Mac Allister, as well as legends of the game like Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard, two of England’s finest ever products.

But Xavi refused to budge, although there was a close call when Andrea Pirlo’s name was mentioned. But when Zinedine Zidane was brought up, the Spanish international promptly broke his silence.

While Barcelona fans would be keen to rank Xavi above Zidane simply because of their rivalry with Real Madrid, it’s difficult to say that the French star is not deserving of the praise. His poise and skill in possession made him a joy to watch, as he guided Real Madrid, Juventus, Bordeaux and the French national side to multiple pieces of silverware, including the 1998 World Cup and the European Championship in 2000.

Xavi is far from the only professional to lavish praise on him, with Manchester United legend Paul Scholes hailing ‘Zizou’ as the “best all-time midfielder.” From past and current professionals to legendary managers, he was truly idolised by all.

Xavi Earned Early Comparisons to Zidane

Both Xavi and Zidane are regarded as outstanding players in their own right nowadays. But back when the Spaniard’s career was just getting started, there was a time when he earned comparisons to the French maestro.

Speaking in 2015, the former La Masia graduate revealed that former manager Louis van Gaal was exceptionally hard on him, but that he would also compare him to Zidane. Despite the harsh words, Xavi went on to say that Van Gaal’s approach had a positive influence on his career.

“Under him I went from playing at Old Trafford to going to play at [third division] Alcoyano when he dropped me back down to Barca B,” Xavi added. “That is something that has been lost. Now if you are in the first team it’s is taken for granted that you will not go back down [to the reserves].”