Formula 1 star Sebastian Vettel: Xavi is the one who conducts the Barcelona orchestra

The German says that the encounter was incredible and had complimentary words for a few of the Blaugrana's star players

Feb 20, 2012 1:30:00 PM

By Enis Koylu

More On :  Barcelona, Valencia, Xavi, Lionel Messi
Sebastian Vettel, Formula 1 driver
Getty

Reigning Formula 1 champion Sebastian Vettel has heaped praise on Barcelona following their 5-1 victory over Valencia on Sunday.

The German was in attendance at Camp Nou as the Blaugrana brushed aside Unai Emery’s men, and Vettel was full of praise for both sets of players.

"It was wonderful to see a match between two great teams. It was fantastic," Vettel told Barca TV. "I’m no expert, but compared to German football, the game is Spain is faster and at another level technically. In addition, the environment is also amazing."

When asked if there was a standout performer on the evening, Vettel was in no doubt, naming Xavi as his pick of the match.

"He is the brain of this team; it is he who conducts the orchestra. [Lionel] Messi is a great striker, who scores a lot of goals, but if you don’t get the ball, you can’t do much."

However, the 24-year-old was full of praise for the Argentine, lauding his character and ability.

"He’s amazing - a humble player who always plays great. The ball always seems to be stuck to his foot. It’s difficult to say whether Messi is the best player ever. Times change and now other qualities are needed.

"It’s hard to compare him with Pele and other players because they all played in different eras."

Despite crushing Valencia, Barcelona sits 10 points behind Real Madrid in the Primera Division table.

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