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12.01.2009 21:25
Barça stars in Zurich
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Leo Messi and Xavi Hernández have had a hectic day. After being with team-mates this morning, the two players travelled to Switzerland for the FIFA World Player Gala.
This Monday has been an unforgettable day for Barça players Leo Messi and Xavi Hernández. Both
were among the five finalists for the FIFA World Player 2008 award presented this evening in the
Zurich Opera House. Messi and Xavi travelled to Switzerland this morning and after the event
returned to Barcelona for training on Tuesday.
Missed training
Messi and Xavi were at Camp Nou in the morning but didn’t train due to bruising after
the Osasuna game. After doing some recovery work, the Argentine and the Catalan went to El Prat
airport where they caught a private flight to Zurich.
“An honour” and “a privilege”
The five FIFA World Player 2008 finalists - Leo Messi, Xavi Hernández,
Cristiano Ronaldo, Kaka and Fernando Torres – appeared at a press conference in Switzerland
at 4.45 pm in the Bernhard Theatre. “It’s an honour to be here with these fantastic
players,” said Messi. “It’s a privilege,” was Xavi’s reaction.
“I’m proud to be the first Catalan to be a FIFA World Player finalist.”
Shared merit
Both Messi and
Xavi thanked their team-mates at Barça and in their national sides for the help they have received.
“Without the team you can’t do anything,” argued Messi. “Being the best at
Euro 2008 is both an individual award but also recognition for the team,” pointed out Xavi.
“I’d like to thank my team-mates for what they’ve done.”
Ronaldo is FIFA World Player
The FIFA World Player 2008 awards ceremony took place at 8 pm in the Zurich Opera House.
Cristiano Ronaldo received the Best Player award from Pelé. Messi came second and Xavi fifth.
No sooner had the event finished than Messi and Xavi headed back to Barcelona where they are
to train this Tuesday at 11 am. They were accompanied during the whole day by chairman Joan
Laporta, technical secretary Txiki Begiristain, director Albert Perrín and a number of relatives of
the players.
Photos: FIFA/FOTO-NET.
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Kaka and Ronaldo praise Barça
Kaka and Cristiano Ronaldo were effusive in their praise for Barça. “Watching Barça is very
interesting and there’s no doubt that they play the best football in the world,” said
the Milan midfielder.
They’re twelve points clear at the top,” added Manchester United’s striker. “They’re a strong team and in with a good shout of winning both the League and the Champions League.”
They’re twelve points clear at the top,” added Manchester United’s striker. “They’re a strong team and in with a good shout of winning both the League and the Champions League.”
