Previous manager Xavi wanted a big name in the position, but the closest he got was bringing a then 32-year-old Ilkay Gundogan in from Manchester City in the summer of 2023. Gundogan ended up starting 33 La Liga matches and nine Champions League games for Barca in 2023-24.

Barcelona will be eyeing further cup success in the Copa del Rey, and they are on course to reach the quarter-finals after taking an early lead in their last 16 clash against Real Betis.Hansi Flick