Barcelona coach Xavi says Girona's LaLiga leadership shouldn't be a surprise.

Girona are thriving with Barca pair Pablo Torre and Eric Garcia there on-loan.

Xai said, "In addition to the loaned ones, we are very satisfied with Eric and Pablo.

"It has a lot of merit, it is spectacular. No surprise, they have been doing well for many years. They went down to Segunda and did not change the model.

"It is no coincidence. It is a long-term project, with patience. Much merit, very much."