Xavi's great legacy is assured

Xavi Hernandez's position as one of the most decorated and important players in the history of Spanish soccer cannot be questioned.

Alongside the likes of Andres Iniesta and Iker Casillas, Xavi turned around the label of the Spanish national side from perennial underachiever to champion, triumphing at the 2010 World Cup and the past two European Championships.

"He has won my affection as a person, while for his football there are very few who cannot say he is a great player," Spain coach Vicente del Bosque said of the 34-year-old, who on Tuesday announced his retirement from international play.