Xavi Hernández will quit FC Barcelona for Qatar at the end of the season. The midfielder will occupy the vacant place left by Raúl González at Al Sadd SC. Xavi has signed a three-year deal with the Qatari outfit with the option of a fourth season and will take an annual salary of 10 million euros. The Barça playmaker will form part of the squad as well as undertake other duties, acting as an adviser to the Aspire Academy.

Xavi has considered other options including proposals from North America but finally was swayed by an offer he couldn’t refuse from Al Sadd – which will see him earn 30 million euros plus an extra 10 million should he complete a fourth term.

During his time in Qatar, Xavi also plans to study for his coaching license. He will have the chance to further his coaching career at the Aspire Academy with the group headed by General Director Iván Bravo.