Barcelona midfielder Nico Gonzalez has welcomed new coach Xavi's appointment.

Nico admits he is excited to be working with the former Barca captain.

He told Mundo Deportivo: "It is amazing, not only for me, for all of Barça it generates an expectation. You see it in training. You see everyone eager to see what he explains to us, what he transmits to us. He is very close and I am sure that he will help us a lot."

On former coach Ronald Koeman, Nico also stated: "The day he was dismissed, I already sent a message to him. From the first moment he trusted me a lot, he bet on me. Last year news came out that he liked me and loved me. He gave me the opportunity and put me in many games. I will always be grateful and wish him the best."