Former Barcelona striker David Villa has hailed the impact of former teammate Xavi.

Villa is delighted seeing Xavi lead Barca to being 12 points clear at the top of the table.

"I'm happy for him, he has changed the face of Barcelona," said Villa.

"When you talk about teams like Bara or Madrid, you can't talk about the Liga being decided, but it's hard for FC Barcelona to miss out on the title, not just because of the 12 points, but seeing its solidity.

"If the year ends as it has to end, at least with the league title that I think they are going to get, very important things can come from the present and the future and I am very happy that Xavi is doing so well."

"I am very happy for him, especially for the friendship we have; I am glad that everything is going well for him in life."

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