In the 21st century, few midfielders have displayed the vision, precision, and longevity that defined Xavi Hernandez‘s illustrious career. The Barcelona legend recently addressed Lionel Messi’s 2010 Ballon d’Or win, which came at the expense of both him and Andres Iniesta.
Xavi, Iniesta, and Messi formed a trio that helped Barcelona become one of the most dominant teams in world soccer, winning numerous trophies together. However, the 2009-10 season carried particular significance as both Xavi and Iniesta played pivotal roles in Spain’s World Cup triumph. Despite this, Messi claimed the prestigious Ballon d’Or that year.
In an interview with France Football, the award’s organizing body alongside FIFA at the time, Xavi reflected on the outcome: “I don’t consider myself a better soccer player than Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo, the Ballon d’Or winners in those years, not at all. I’m proud to have finished third three times, even though an official ‘Bronze Ball’ isn’t awarded. It’s a shame—I’d love for France Football to give me a few to display in my museum,” the Barca legend said while laughing.
Despite winning La Liga, the Spanish Super Cup, the UEFA Super Cup, and the Club World Cup that season, many fans believed Xavi or Iniesta deserved the Ballon d’Or given their World Cup triumph. Ultimately, Messi received 22.67% of the votes, ahead of Iniesta (17.36%) and Xavi (16.48%), fueling debate over the award’s outcome.
However, Xavi chose to focus on the broader achievement of Barcelona’s dominance during that era. “That photo with my friends Andres and Leo is historic, incredible. For me, it’s the victory of a philosophy, a unique recognition of our style and our heritage,” he admitted.
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Despite being named the third-best player in the world three times (in 2009, 2010, and 2011), Xavi never considered himself on par with Messi or Ronaldo. He explained what set those two apart from him. “I was a playmaker, but I didn’t have the ability to decide a match on my own,” Xavi stated, acknowledging Messi and Ronaldo’s unique ability to turn games single-handedly.
Xavi’s impact was undeniable, though. Over 933 career appearances, he scored 112 goals and provided 216 assists, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest playmakers and assist providers in soccer history.
