Xavi to leave Barcelona, says father; official announcement expected this week

The end of an era.

Xavi, the iconic Barcelona midfielder whose name will forever be ingrained in the hearts of Blaugrana supporters, is expected to announce that he will be leaving the only club he's ever known this summer.

The 35-year-old's father, Joaquin Hernandez, told Cope Radio that the club legend has decided to call time on his days in the Catalan capital, ahead of a widely-reported move to Qatari side Al Saad.

"His ultimate dream would have been to finish his football career here (at Barca), but he is 35 years old and I think there comes a time to say 'enough' to the club," the elder Hernandez said, as translated by ESPN FC.

"He was very fortunate to receive a truly impressive offer that allows him to continue to play football, to prepare as a future coach and rest a little."

Spanish outlet AS has reported that Xavi - who joined Barcelona's famed La Masia academy when he was 11 years old and has gone on to capture eight La Liga crowns, three Champions League titles and become the club's all-time leader in appearances - will officially announce the move at a press conference on Thursday.

Should that be the case, his final match at the Camp Nou will come this weekend against Deportivo, and his last contest with the club will be the Champions League final against Juventus on June 6.

There is, of course, no guarantee he'll feature in the latter match thanks to the presence of Ivan Rakitic, who has overtaken the Spaniard in the midfield pecking order - one of the reasons he has decided to look for a new playing experience.

Regardless, his influence on the club, and the sport as a whole, is undeniable. It was recognized in a heartfelt tribute from longtime teammate Andres Iniesta, the man who most often dominated opposing midfielders alongside him for both club and country.

"I am out of compliments. I will not find anyone at the stature of what he represents as a person and a player," Iniesta said in a recent interview.

"The figures, the years, the feelings, his way of doing things are beyond any words. He is a unique player, unrepeatable and has been fundamental at the club and with the national team.

"It is a true pleasure and privilege to have had my entire career at his side."