Report: Xavi to remain at Barcelona until 2015

Veteran Barcelona midfielder Xavi will spend one more season with the club he has called home for his entire career.

According to Spanish newspaper AS, the 34-year-old will forego a move to nascent MLS club New York City FC this summer, and remain with Barcelona until June of next year.

The midfielder, coming off a disastrous campaign at the World Cup that saw him lose his starting place, reportedly had a discussion with new Barcelona manager Luis Enrique, in which he was told that he will no longer be an automatic starter this season.

Despite that, it seems he is willing to fight for his place in the hopes of enjoying one more trophy-laden season with the Catalan giants.

While no longer carrying the same influence as he once did on the pitch, his presence on the team alone is vital, according to teammate Marc Bartra. The young defender said that losing the veteran would be a significant blow to the squad, considering the recent departures of vice-captain's Victor Valdes and Carles Puyol.

"Those three players are leaders, three great players that, if Xavi's departure is confirmed, will leave a huge hole in the dressing room," Bartra said at a recent news conference.

"Personally Xavi has helped me a lot, and so it would be very sad news for me if he leaves, but we will respect his decision, he has earned everyone's respect."

[H/T: ESPN FC]