Xavi Hernandez has revealed that he plans to retire from playing at the end of this season.

The former Barcelona and Spain midfielder has been plying his trade in Qatar’s top flight with Al Sadd since 2015.

“It’s going to be my last year, in January I’ll turn 39 and I think it’s time to say goodbye,” Xavi said in an interview with Spanish radio station Cadena Ser on Thursday night.

Xavi achieved great success with the national team, winning the World Cup once and the European Championships twice.

Ever since he left Camp Nou, he’s been linked with a return to his hometown club. Xavi has spoken about his desire to coach Barcelona in the past.

However, he maintains that he first wants to gain experience as a manager in Qatar.

“The idea is to start here in Qatar to get experience, to prove myself, it’s a new stage where I start from scratch,” Xavi added.

“Coaching Barca is a big deal, you have to be very prepared and honestly, I still do not feel I am ready.”

Xavi won eight La Liga and four Champions League titles with the Catalans.