5 of the greatest South Americans to have worn the colours of FC Barcelona

#3 Dani Alves (2008–2016)

The Brazilian was an inspired signing who over-performed for the club

Nobody, not even Pep Guardiola, could have guessed the impact that this straight-shooting, ball of fire and energetic Brazilian would have had at the club and why he is being spoken of as the club’s greatest ever right back.

Born Daniel Alves da Silva 'Dani Alves', the Brazilian right-back was signed for £23m (plus £7m in performance-related add-ons) from Sevilla in 2008 in Pep’s first season as manager.

He was a revelation for Los Nervionenses as he was an integral part of the team that, under Juande Ramos, won 5 trophies in three seasons including two UEFA Cups (now Europa League) & a UEFA Super Cup (where Sevilla thrashed a Ronaldinho-led Barca 3-0).

The brash Brazilian would go on to become a pillar of the all-conquering Barcelona side that swept all before it under the tutelage of Guardiola and became a firm favourite of Culés with his marauding runs down the right flank, exuberant style of play, brilliant crossing and almost telepathic understanding with teammates, especially Lionel Messi.

In an 8-year period which also happens to be the best in Barcelona’s history, the Brazilian won a staggering haul of 26 trophies including 6 La Liga titles & 3 UEFA Champions League trophies.

He featured in 414 games for the Blaugrana and scored 23 goals; his departure was met with anger by the fans who blamed the club’s board led by Josep Bartomeu for this fans favourite’s exit.