Ivan Rakitic’s time at Barcelona is seemingly coming to an end. The Croatian midfielder, who arrived from Sevilla in 2015, has played a massive part in helping the Blaugrana maintain a stranglehold over the LaLiga. He also helped Barca win a treble in his debut season at the Nou Camp.
However, the Catalan giants have lots of riches when it comes to the midfield. With Rakitic growing no younger as days pass by, they are close to letting the 31-year-old leave. The emergence of Arthur Melo and the signing of Frenkie de Jong from Arthur Melo heralds the era of a new midfield at the club. And as such, it is time for the old guard to stand down.
With Rakitic leaving, Barcelona will require able fresh legs to replace him in the dressing room. In that case, here are 5 players who can fill his boots at the Nou Camp.
#1 Houssem Aouar (Lyon)
Barcelona don’t need to get introduced to Lyon starlet Houssem Aouar. The Frenchman has already given the Spanish giants a peek into his locker during their Champions League clash with Lyon last season.
Barcelona had shown a keen interest in signing the 21-year-old back in February. The midfielder also revealed that he learnt much of the game by watching former Barcelona players and legends, Xavi and Iniesta. As a matter of fact, he has based his game on the one ability that is valued the most at the Nou Camp – passing.
Aouar averages a pass accuracy of 90.8% and would be a treat to watch in a midfield trio alongside Frenkie de Jong and Arthur Melo. He also represents a long-term solution for Barca given that he is still 21.
