Barcelona’s midfield icon Xavi Hernandez has become the new all-time record holder for appearances in the Champions League after playing his 143rd game in the competition against Paris Saint-Germain on Tuesday surpassing former record holder and ex-international team-mate Raul. It’s deserved recognition for a player who began his relationship with the competition in September 1998, more than 16 years prior to his record-breaking display against the Ligue 1 champions.
Xavi came off the bench on Tuesday, just as he did in his debut, a 3-3 draw against Manchester United all those years ago. Depending upon Barca’s progression in the tournament and the role Xavi goes on to play under former team-mate Enrique, he could yet extend the record even further.
