Xavi Hernandez retires from Spanish national team

Barcelona midfielder Xavi Hernandez says he will not play again for the Spanish national team after a disappointing World Cup.

The 34-year-old Xavi says "I have taken the decision to leave the selection. I think my time has ended."

Xavi was Spain's key playmaker in their unprecedented run of winning the World Cup in 2010 and two European championships in 2008 and 2012.

But Spain flopped at this summer's World Cup, losing their first two games and subsequently exiting the competition in the group stage.

Xavi says being benched for that second match against Chile was key in his decision to retire from international duty.

He says he will continue to play for Barcelona, with two years remaining on his current contract.