Xavi feels that his Barcelona teammate Lionel Messi would again play a crucial role as they face arch-rivals Real Madrid on Wednesday in the quarter-finals of Copa del Rey.

Messi has consistently displayed his superb talent for the Catalans over the last few seasons in the Clasico. Xavi is keen to look forward for more such magic from the Argentine during the first leg game at Santiago Bernabeu.

Xavi said, “Leo will always make the difference. He’s usually a decisive player and he’s someone who grows with these games and likes playing in these games.”

It is interesting to note that unlike Messi, Los Blancos star, Cristiano Ronaldo, is accused to go missing in derby clashes.

Ronaldo is also facing some criticism lately for his poor form before the goal. However, Xavi believes the criticism of former Manchester United player is not fair.

The Spanish midfielder added, “Strikers do have runs of scoring and sometimes they dry up. It’s something a player gets used to – especially goal-scorers.”

Xavi praised Sergio Busquets for his efforts towards the team. The midfielder remarked, “He should have been in the FifPro World XI. He’s an extraordinary player and he rarely makes a mistake either in attack or defence.”

Barcelona currently are 5 points at the back of their rivals Madrid in the La Liga. They would host Los Blancos for the second leg at Nou Camp.