FC Barcelona coach Xavi Hernandez on Sunday refused to confirm whether or not veteran midfielder Sergio Busquets would be at the club next season.
Busquets, who turns 35 in July, will be out of contract with Barca at the end of June, and has yet to agree terms of a new deal.
Speaking ahead of Monday's La Liga game at home to Girona, Xavi was asked about the future of his former teammate, who has made 714 appearances for the club.
"We'll see how he finishes the season," replied the coach, adding "I have said many times that 'Busi' is very important for me, not just for his football, but also for his influence in the dressing room."
However, after implying he wants Busquets to stay, Xavi hinted that the player himself might want to call time on his career.
"I have said many times that I want him to stay, but I also understand him and I have told him that. If everything goes well this year, he can leave with titles and in a great moment and I understand that perfectly," explained the coach.
Xavi also commented that he speaks with Barcelona's sporting directors Mateu Alemany and Jordi Cruyff every day to help plan for next season.
"We are focused on the league and we want to win it. It's not the time to discuss signings," he insisted.
