Another day, another Xavi Classic

Xavi Hernández is the classic of the current-day 'Clásicos'. The midfielder will play his 36th game against Real Madrid after 14 seasons with Barcelona's first team.

The Terrassa-born player will pull ahead of Iker Casillas in this regard, with whom he is almost on a par, having played only one more classic match than the Real Madrid goalkeeper. He will now be two up on his friend and fellow awardee of the latest Prince of Asturias prize.

The record for the most 'Clásico' appearances lies with Paco Gento. The former Real Madrid footballer took part in a total of 42 games against Barcelona, a figure that is still a way off for Xavi, but one he could reach if he keeps going as he is.

On Monday, the player renewed his contract until 2016. He therefore has three more seasons and what remains of this one. If he evades injury and the coaches keep picking him, Xavi has time to catch Gento. From now to the end of his contract, Barcelona and Real Madrid will meet at least seven more times. That number only takes the Spanish League matches in account, although the likelihood is that there will be additional games in other competitions such as the Champions League, 'Copa del Rey' or the Spanish Super Cup.