Xavi is confident that Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola will remain at the club beyond the end of the current campaign.

Guardiola's existing contract is due to expire in the summer and he has asked for time to consider his options.

While Xavi is reluctant to predict the decision of his coach, the World Cup-winning playmaker is confident that Guardiola will remain at Nou Camp next season.

He said: "The coach has given us a great security.

"He is the key. We'd love him to renew because we are very happy with him. We have to wait because, after all, it is he who must decide. But he will renew."

Xavi is a product of the Barcelona's youth team and made his debut in 1998.

Written by
Robert Summerscales