Xavi: Atletico Madrid will win Champions League title

Barcelona icon Xavi has picked a side ahead of Saturday's Champions League final. Here's a hint: it won't come as a surprise.

A four-time winner of Europe's premier club competition with the Blaugrana, the Spanish midfielder is backing Atletico Madrid to capture the coveted piece of silverware over Real Madrid. Shocker, we know.

"I believe that Atletico will take home the trophy," said Xavi, who now plays his club football in Qatar. "I think this is the moment of Atletico.

"They also deserve it because of the work they are doing. Of course it is not the philosophy of play that I like the most, because they speculate and wait in defence, but I think it is the moment of Atletico Madrid. Football always gives you a second chance, and it is the same final as two years ago in Lisbon. Now we have the final in Milan and I think it is the time of Atletico Madrid."

The 36-year-old admitted that Real Madrid has history, both long-term and recent, on its side, but remains firm in his assertion that it will be the Rojiblancos celebrating in Milan.

"The favourite in terms of history could be Real Madrid, as they have more experience in finals and these situations. So they have the edge in that regard. But I believe and think that it is the moment of Atletico Madrid."