5 possible long-term replacements for Sergio Busquets at Barcelona

#4 Marc Roca (Espanyol)

Roca could be a homemade replacement for Busi

A native-born Catalan just like Busquets, the arrival of the youngster on the scene has got people paying attention.

Espanyol's academy hasn't been especially prolific in recent years. However, in Roca, they could have a new jewel at the RCDE Stadium.

Tall and rangy like Busquets, Roca is a left-footer who has shown an understanding of the game beyond his years. He is a decent tackler as well and has been very good this season sitting at the base of Espanyol's midfield.

Such is the faith that Espanyol’s new manager, Rubi has in the midfielder. At such a young age, he has been given the responsibility to piece together the team’s build-up just in front of the centrebacks. This he has done brilliantly thanks to his Busquets-like calmness and composure on the ball.

This has allowed Sergi Darder the freedom to play further forward and look to make things happen in the opposition’s half. Roca still has a long way to go before he can be anywhere near Busquets' level. However, he has time on his hands and will get better.