Xavi loving life in Qatar

Former Barcelona midfielder Xavi Hernandez is enjoying his time in Qatar with his new club, Al Sadd, telling reporters that living and playing in this up-and-coming footballing environment affords him a new look at the beautiful game, as well as a few perks.

The 35-year-old Spanish midfielder made his debut for his new club on Sunday in a 4-0 win over Al Mesaimeer and was left impressed by the team's fervent supporters.

"What surprises me about Qatar is that they are football fanatics," Xavi said after the match. "Although they don't go to the stadium, on Monday they know all about everything, plus Madrid and Barca, too."

Besides playing in front of empty stadiums and speaking with fans about his performances the day after, Xavi also says that one of the benefits of playing and living in Qatar is the access to some of football's more (well, most) obscure fixtures.

"I am living pure football," Xavi said. "Now I can watch an under-17 game between Oman and Kuwait. I watch football from many gulf countries, plus all the (big) leagues, as I have always done."

Curiously enough, Xavi didn't mention his €10-million salary as one of the numerous perks of playing for Al Sadd, which we're sure didn't play much of a factor in his decision to join the club in the first place.