Xavi vs Andrea Pirlo
Spain against Italy. The almanac states its case, the crowd votes, you decide.
X
Xavi
Spain · 1998–2019 · CM
- Almanac rating
- 95
- Rank in Spain
- #3 of 33
The beating heart of Tiki-Taka, Xavi was a midfield visionary whose unparalleled passing and tactical intelligence drove Spain to World Cup and two European Championships.
vs
Andrea Pirlo
Italy · 2000s · CM
- Almanac rating
- 94
- Rank in Italy
- #7 of 33
- Caps
- 116 · 13 goals
- Clubs
- AC Milan, Juventus, New York City
- Honours
- 2× Hall of Fame (2004–2006)
The deep-lying conductor, Pirlo's masterful passing and exquisite set-piece delivery guided Italy to the 2006 World Cup and Milan to two Champions League titles. Career record: 116 caps and 13 goals for Italy; club career at AC Milan, Juventus, New York City; honours include 2× Hall of Fame (2004–2006).
The verdict
The almanac puts Xavi ahead by 1 rating point, 95 against 94.
Fans have not settled this one yet. Cast the first vote in the duels.