Champions League: Barcelona's Xavi breaks down in live TV tribute

Going, going, gone - Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu (left) and Andres Iniesta comfort Xavi

He could hold it together under severe pressure on the football pitch, but Barcelona legend Xavi crumbled during his live farewell tribute on Wednesday.

The 35-year-old, who leaves the club after 25 years following Saturday's Champions League final, was on stage as players, managers, friends and family paid tribute to the midfielder.

"I hope this is not goodbye, but more a case of see you later," said Xavi.

"Never in my wildest dreams did I imagine the things I would experience."

Xavi, who has won 24 trophies with Barca plus a World Cup and two European Championships with Spain, will join Qatari side Al Sadd on a three-year deal.

It did not take long for Xavi to well up as Barca president Bartomeu read out his tribute in front of media, family and friends live on the club's TV channel

Xavi was then presented with a signed shirt by his long-time midfield partner and close friend Andres Iniesta, who also gave a speech

The star attraction then addressed those who assembled at the farewell event

Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal, who gave Xavi his Barca debut in 1998, said in a video tribute: "Xavi, you are not very bad, you are very good"

Xavi's wife Nuria Cunillera (left) and his parents were also present as the player announced he and his wife were expecting their first child

Full-back Dani Alves (second from right) and Neymar (right) attended in more casual attire - Barca manager Luis Enrique and ex-defender Carles Puyol also sat in the audience