Sportskeeda's list of 50 best players playing currently: 40-31

#33 Ivan Rakitic

Although certainly not a direct replacement for virtuoso Xavi, Barcelona’s purchase of Rakitic in 2014 was undoubtedly due to a desperate need for midfield personnel. Since then, the now 28-year-old’s direct approach has rendered him a first-team inclusion.

Last campaign, the Croatian national player made a total of 1538 successful passes at an impressive completion rate of 88%. So, he may not dictate the game to the degree Xavi did, but he’s proven to fit the Barcelona system well, operating on occasion as a number-ten and, on others, as a holding player.

Rakitic sought immediate success with the Catalans, winning the treble in his debut season and scoring the opener in the Champions League final itself. His position requires excellent stamina, vision and mental resolve; all traits he has in abundance. It’s been a positive start to life at the Nou Camp for Rakitic who still has an opportunity for improvement and will be looking to emulate last season’s heroics with Barca this time around too.