Lionel Messi has revealed Arthur reminds him of former Barcelona midfielder Xavi. The Brazilian midfielder joined Barcelona this summer from Gremio for a reported fee of £35.5m.
The 22 year old hasn’t been able to nail down a spot in the starting lineup but he has already caught the attention of Argentine superstar Messi. Following the departure of Andres Iniesta and Paulinho, there was a void in the middle of the park and the midfielder was brought in an attempt to plug the gap.
The youngster is expected to make a mark this season and it seems he has already got the necessary recognition from the stalwart himself. Messi has been very impressed by the player’s attributes and has claimed the player can be an asset for the side.
‘They are very good, those that have come in, in particular Arthur has surprised me as I didn’t really know him.
‘He is very similar to Xavi as he likes to have the ball, play short, not lose it and is very solid. He surprised me but I like them all.
Arthur has the style we have here, he understood quickly in training.
Arthur has the style we have here, he understood quickly in training.”
