Former Spanish midfielder Xavi Hernandez arrives in Male' for the Exhibition Match between the National Team and the SAFF Championship 2008 squad.
The 36-year old will not play in the match. However, Argentina's former Defender Roberto Ayala will play in the match, a first for the country.
Football Association of Maldives (FAM) Ahmed Thoriq (Tom) said this match was part of the work carried out by the Association to promote and elevate football in the country. A player of Xavi's stature will achieve these aims.
Xavi currently plays as a central midfielder for Qatari club Al Sadd SC. He played an integral role in Spain's victory at the 2010 World Cup, as well as their successes at both Euro 2008 and Euro 2012. He had a 91% passing success rate at the 2010 World Cup and was named in the World Cup All-star Team. He was named Player of the Tournament by UEFA at Euro 2008. He was also named in the UEFA Euro Team of the Tournament in 2008 as well as 2012. After the 2014 World Cup, Xavi announced his retirement from international football.
