Posted on November 8, 2021 at 1:00 a.m. by Th.B.
Having chosen to take the legendary number 4 of Pep Guardiola at FC Barcelona while having to ensure the succession of the icon Xavi Hernandez, Ivan Rakitic returned to his arrival at Barça by emptying his bag in passing on his adaptation.
During the summer of 2014 through which FC Barcelona notably completed the arrival of Luis Suarez , the club culé has secured the services of 'Ivan Rakitic . The Croatian international managed to quickly join the collective of the workforce which was at the time coached by Luis Enrique and landed according to the press to fill the departure of Xavi Hernandez who bade farewell to FC Barcelona at the end of the 2014-2015 season and a Champions League in your pocket. Asked about his arrival and adaptation to FC Barcelona Ivan Rakitic was keen to set the record straight for the succession of the man who became Barca coach on Saturday morning.
“I don't think we can replace Xavi. There will no longer be another Xavi “
“Why am I taking Guardiola's number when I arrive?” Honestly, we all know what Guardiola represents in football. I was offered three or four different numbers. When I saw the 4, even though no one would imagine me wearing the 4 one day, well I chose it. I knew who was playing with it and that was historic. I respected the player so much and even more when he became coach… So it was very special to have this number 4. If I come to replace Xavi? No, no, I don't think we can replace Xavi. There will no longer be another Xavi. I even think today, if he decided to come back, he would be level. It was very important for me to be able to benefit from his knowledge and to learn from him for a year. I am very grateful to him for that. I have a lot of affection for him. Because it’s not easy at Barça. We arrive in a completely different world. This is another way of looking at tactics, different systems or the relationship between players. For me it was very important to be ready from day one! To make a good preparation to quickly convince Luis Enrique. Then the coach really helped me fit in and I was able to give everything! “. Ivan Rakitic said in an interview with beIN SPORTS.