Gabi says no to Xavi LaLiga Atletico captain has rejected a move to Qatar

Diego Simeone values the contributions of Gabi significantly, and the Spaniard has repaid the loyalty shown to him by the club by saying no to Xavi.

The former Barcelona midfielder wanted to take Gabi to Qatar prior to taking over as the coach of Al-Sadd but has been unsuccessful.

He will spend at least another season in the Spanish capital, extending his stay with Los Colchoneros with a move at this moment not appealing to the veteran.

During his career with the Catalan giants, Xavi faced Gabi on 17 occasions and knows exactly what qualities he would bring to the team.

One of the conditions that saw Gabi's one-year extension clause be activated was that he played more than 60 minutes of 25 competitive matches, something he did with ease.

Fernando Torres' departure lowers the degree of experience in the Atleti squad somewhat, however Gabi will be present for the coming season as Simeone hopes to challenge for the Champions League once again.

The consensus in Madrid is that the midfielder will have a role to play at the Estadio Wanda Metropolitano for as long as he wants one.