Lionel Messi would be even BETTER in the Premier League, claims Barcelona team-mate Xavi
Barcelona icon Xavi believes Lionel Messi would get even better - if he moved to the Premier League.
The Argentine has smashed near enough every record in sight at the Nou Camp but Xavi claims he could benefit from the English game.
Speaking to Match of the Day Kickabout, he said: "I think he'd be even better in the Premier League because it is not so defensive.
"When defending against Barcelona, they [English clubs] play on a 1 v 1 basis, defending with passion, a lot of energy. But Leo would find more spaces than in La Liga."
Xavi also insisted Manchester United must be patient with Louis van Gaal - labelling the Dutchman an "extraordinary coach".
The Spanish maestro played under Van Gaal during the Dutchman's second spell at the Nou Camp and believes he will deliver success at Old Trafford.
"He is very capable of succeeding with a great challenge. I think Manchester United should be patient with him so he can achieve the goal with his system and be able to transmit his coaching values."
The Barcelona man discussed a series of topics, including his current favourite English players, picking out Jack Wilshere and Raheem Sterling.
And having claimed Sterling and Ross Barkley could play for Barca earlier this week, he sang the praises of more English players.
"I would have in my team any top technically-gifted player. Barnes was one, Gascoigne another. Steven Gerrard could have played for Barcelona, as could Frank Lampard.
"They're players with top-quality technique. Here we prioritise technique over the physical aspect of the game. So a lot of English players could play for Barcelona."
Category: Premier League
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