5 major differences between Valverde and Enrique's tactics at Barcelona

4) Ivan Rakitic awakens

Rakitic now has more freedom to play between the lines in midfield

Rakitic has had a career of ups and downs ever since signing for Barcelona from Sevilla in 2014. While the first season saw him become a hero in the treble-winning campaign, the last season saw him play a peripheral role, constantly struggling to make an impact from midfield.

Under Enrique, Rakitic wasn't played to his strengths. Without a specialist right-back in the side, he was forced out wide in right midfield a number of times so Messi could drift in to work with Suarez. Someone had to cover for his absence on the flank and the Croatian midfielder had no other choice but to step in.

As a result, his role became slightly diminished and Barcelona suffered from his reduced ability to create chances.

But with Messi now firmly in the False Nine role and a worthy right-back in Nelson Semedo patrolling the right flank, Rakitic has been able to focus all his energy on playing in the centre.

He now has the freedom to dictate play and also make off-ball runs into the box when Barcelona are in possession. The way he combined with Messi with a telepathic understanding to beat the offside trap is also promising.