Barcelona's Arthur has a touch of Xavi, claims Rafinha
Rafinha believes Barcelona's new midfielder Arthur is comparable to the club's legendary player Xavi.
Barcelona's new signing Arthur is reminiscent of club icon Xavi, according to team-mate Rafinha.
The Brazilian midfielder shone on his first appearance for the Catalan giants, scoring a fine goal in the International Champions Cup against Tottenham on Saturday.
Barcelona boss Ernesto Valverde praised Arthur's display and fellow midfielder Rafinha was also impressed by the 21-year-old, who has joined from Gremio.
"I don't like to make comparisons usually, but he has a touch of Xavi about him," Rafinha said after Barca beat Spurs on penalties in Pasadena.
"It's the way he touches the ball, the way he passes it. He's a great, great signing for Barcelona."
Rose BowlBarça vs Tottenham A special guest star at the match: Julia Roberts.Thanks for coming! Força Barça! July 29, 2018
Arthur was not expected to join Barca until January but the LaLiga champions were able to bring the deal forward, much to the uncapped midfielder's delight.
"It's a dream to be here," Arthur said. "I have worked hard for this and fortunately now I am here.
Get FourFourTwo Newsletter
The best features, fun and footballing quizzes, straight to your inbox every week.
"I am really happy. I want to work hard to be able to give my best.”
"I am happy for my goal and for the result."
Barça vs TottenhamPost-match reactions: July 29, 2018
Another Brazilian arrival, former Bordeaux winger Malcom, scored the decisive spot-kick for Barcelona.
"He's a great player," added Rafinha, who was on loan at Inter last term.
"He unbalances defenders, he's great one on one, I expect a lot from him."
‘Managing Leeds? It was an option that appeared, but it wasn’t the right timing. I decided it wasn’t a good idea to leave the club I was at mid-season’: Premier League boss admits to turning down opportunity to replace Jesse Marsch in 2023
‘Ruben Amorim could have waited for Real Madrid and had a better chance to be successful – to have joined Manchester United, he must be convinced in his own ability’ Former Old Trafford coach’s verdict on new boss