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Published 17:58 IST, June 11th 2020

Lionel Messi is 'God of Football', Xavi should manage Barcelona till he lasts: Eto'o

Former Barcelona striker Samuel Eto'o wants former teammate Xavi to return to Camp Nou as manager while 'God of Football' Lionel Messi is still playing.

Reported by: Sreehari Menon
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Former Barcelona striker Samuel Eto'o has urged former teammate Xavi to go back to Camp Nou while 'God of Football' Lionel Messi is still playing. The six-time Ballon D'Or winner is reaching the twilight of his career and the former Inter Milan striker wants Xavi to take his spot in the dugout before Lionel Messi's career comes to a close. Xavi himself is highly regarded in the Barcelona folklore and has been constantly linked with being the next manager at the LaLiga giants since Ernesto Valverde's sacking. 

Also Read: Paulo Dybala Reveals Desire To Play With Argentina Teammate Lionel Messi At Barcelona

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Samuel Eto'o wants Xavi to become Barcelona manager while 'God of Football' Lionel Messi is still playing

Speaking to Cataluyna Radio, former Cameroon international Samuel Eto'o revealed that he advised Xavi to not wait long to become Barcelona manager and take his opportunity while Lionel Messi was still playing. The former Barcelona captain had stated earlier that does not feel ready for the task of leading the Blaugrana, which prompted the club to appoint Quique Setien midway through the current season.

Samuel Eto'o believes that his former teammate and Barcelona legend Xavi has to go back to Camp Nou and the presence of Lionel Messi will make it easier for him. Eto'o heaped praise on the current Barcelona captain, labelling the six-time Ballon D'or winner as the 'God of Football'. Xavi is currently the manager of Saudi Arabian outfit Al Sadd, where he spent the final four years of his playing career.  

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Also Read: Mohamed Salah Was Advised To Watch Lionel Messi Closely By Former Egypt Coach

Also Read: Lionel Messi Trains Alone In Empty Nou Camp As Barcelona Prepare For LaLiga Restart

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Samuel Eto'o believes Luis Suarez has written history for Barcelona and won't be easily replaced 

Speaking on the prospect of Barcelona signing Lautaro Martinez, Samuel Eto'o said that Luis Suarez has been a great servant for the club and it won't be easy to replace him. Eto'o added that while Lautaro Martinez is doing well recently, Suarez is making an incredible story with Barcelona and they both have been lucky to play for the Blaugrana. The former Inter Milan striker further said that Luis Suarez has written history with Barcelona and people should not forget his contribution. He further stated that the former Liverpool striker is a 'general' and if Barcelona want to reinforce themselves, it isn't necessary to take the stripes away from him. 

Also Read: Lionel Messi Excited for LaLiga restart Post Coronavirus Lockdown

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17:58 IST, June 11th 2020