Ivan Rakitic accepts comparisons to Barcelona legend Xavi, but claims that it will be difficult for anyone to replace the Spanish national team's guard.
The 26-year-old footballer joined the Catalan ranks this summer from Sevilla. Meanwhile, many argue that the Croat is the perfect replacement for the Spanish icon.
Despite the fact that throughout the summer it was thought that Xavi would leave Camp Nou, the guard was appointed as captain for this season. In his 16 years at the club, the 34-year-old player has won the La Liga seven times and the UEFA Champions League three times.
Rakitic admitted that, while comparisons to Xavi are nice, he is focused on making sure that the fans of the club he always dreamed of moving to know his own name.
"It's nice that people consider me to be Xavi's follower, but I am Rakitic. It is impossible to replace such a great player as Xavi," the Croat said to Sportske novosti.
"I can't wait for the start of La Liga. During the off-season we worked a lot and I hope it will show on the field. Barcelona is powerful again."
"I always wanted to join Barcelona. It was my dream."
Rakitic also revealed that Lionel Messi helped him settle in Catalonia. Furthermore, he believes that the club's new signing Luis Suarez will continue to surprise everyone when he returns to the field at the end of October.
"Messi is not different from the others. He is very helpful. He offered to help me find an apartment or house in Barcelona."
"There's no need to talk about Suarez's possibilities. What's important is that he's with us in every training session."
Barcelona will start the new season on Sunday at home against Elche.
