Midfielders play the most significant role in the style of play that FC Barcelona has traditionally followed, and this is still the case with Xavi’s team.
Historical Barcelona managers like Johan Cryuff, Louis Van Gaal, Frank Rijkaard, Pep Guardiola, Tito Vilanova, Luis Enrique, Ernesto Valverde, and Ronald Koeman, have all favored an approach that relies mainly on the abilities of the players playing in the center of the pitch.
As a result, Sergio Busquets has played perhaps the most important role in Barcelona’s different squads over the years since the start of the last decade. However, as his time at the club is fast approaching an end, the club must look for alternatives going forward.
As per recent reports from SPORT, Xavi has clearly shown his confidence in Martin Zubimendi as the man best suited to replace Sergio Busquets, primarily because of their similar attributes and Zubimendi’s young age. However, the €60 million release clause, from which La Real is unwilling to budge, is making it difficult to sign the youngster.
Thus, the board is also looking at Ruben Neves as an alternative signing to replace the departing Captain. His agent being Jorge Mendes provides the Blaugrana with enough optimism about his transfer to the club at a reasonable price and wages.
However, Xavi is not entirely convinced with Neves’ attributes and style of play. Mateu Alemany, on the other hand, has set his sights on the French midfielder, N’golo Kante, but he is yet to convince the rest of the board regarding the declining physical condition of the Chelsea man.