Pep Guardiola stopped Xavi from joining Bayern Munich in 2008
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In an interview with Mundo Deportivo, the 33-year-old midfielder revealed the German giants made him an offer right after a stunning Euro 2008 where he was named player of the tournament.
He said: "It was pretty serious. There was even a meeting with the Bayern coach and FIFA agent (Giovanni) Branchini."
Before the move was completed, though, Guardiola was named as new Barcelona coach and quickly prevented Xavi from making the move.
Xavi added: "There was no time for anything. Pep grabbed me and told me that I couldn't leave, that the Barça he had in mind revolved around certain players, and I was one of them.
"And he was right. It was another good decision, because my ambition is to retire at Barça.
"Now look at us, Pep is the one who's at Bayern. These are the twists and turns of football. It's unbelievable."
