Xavi: Arthur can mark a new era at Barcelona

Former Barcelona midfielder Xavi Hernandez believes that Arthur Melo has Barca in his ‘DNA’.

The Spanish midfielder, who is now playing for Al-Sadd in Qatar, believes that Barcelona’s new Brazilian midfielder can be a huge success at the club and has all the attributes to become a key player in the new era.

This season is the first that neither Xavi or Andres Iniesta are in the Barcelona squad, marking the end of an era.

The club have looked to recruit players capable of replacing the pair, whose unique talents have helped the Spanish giants to become one of the most successful sides in Europe over the last-decade-and-a-half.

Xavi left the club in 2015 to continue his career abroad while Iniesta finally broke away to play in Japan this summer.

One of the big summer signings who many hope will help the club continue to be successful was Arthur Melo. The Brazilian signed for a fee thought to be in the region of €31m and Xavi believes he has all the qualities needed to be a hit in Catalonia.

Speaking to Villa Trinidad radio, the ex-Barca midfielder said: “He’s (Arthur Melo) one of those players that we say has Barça DNA.”

“He has all the qualities needed to be a success and if he’s given games, I think we’re looking at a player that can mark an era at Barcelona.”

142 – Arthur Melo attempted 142 passes against Valencia, the most by a player in a La Liga away game since Xavi Hernandez vs Levante in November 2012 (148). Reference. pic.twitter.com/jYspVgc28f

— OptaJose (@OptaJose) October 7, 2018

Despite an initially strong start to the season, winning their first four games, the La Liga Champions have now not won in the last four, drawing three and losing away to Leganes in a shock defeat. They currently sit second behind surprise package Sevilla, who have won five out of their first eight league games this season.

Arthur has so far bagged one assist in his first four appearances for the club and will look to get more game time to help his team get back to winning ways and continue his development at the club.

READ MORE: Xavi’s true heir: Why Barcelona have needed a player like Arthur for years

The midfielder has been capped by the Brazilian national side since joining Barcelona and played well in their recent victory over Argentina, only helping to enhance his reputation.

Barca face leaders Sevilla tomorrow where a win would see them leapfrog their opponents back at the top of the table.

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