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The European football was in grief when one of its most gifted players, Andres Iniesta called his time at the top-level.
The Spanish midfielder was an absolute genius with the ball at his feet and stepped up when it mattered the most.
His world cup winning goal is the one that coming generations will be playing on the loop. All good things do come to an end.
However, Barca now have the mammoth task of finding someone to fill in the number #8 at the club.
Here are the possible options they can look at.
# 5. Luis Alberto
The Spaniard is a name not as popular as the upcoming ones on the list but he has grabbed much spotlight in Italy this season.
He is a versatile option to look at who is capable of being deployed in any attacking or play-making role. His flair and passing would match Valverde's style of play.
Also read: 5 players Barcelona can sign this summer
Known for his astonishing passing skills, he is a hot prospect ahead of the summer. Also, his dribbling and set piece delivery are sensational.
The 25-year-old has scored 12 while providing for another 19 this season so far, in all competitions. Alberto would provide the depth to the team's attack which for now relies on the likes of Paulinho, Denis Suarez or Osumane Dembele.
Barcelona have been reported to be planning a move for their former La Masia graduate. An offer to play for one of the biggest clubs in the world would be hard for him to resist.
# 4. Christian Eriksen
Christian Eriksen has been one of the most consistent players in the Premier League for the last few seasons.
The Danish International, has been a key to the Spurs attack and creativity, from the midfield. The 26-year-old has netted 14 goals and provided for another 12 in all competitions, so far this season.
His ability to drop deep to fetch the ball and provide dangerous balls into the box is what Valverde needs at the moment to cut Lionel Messi's workload. The Catalan club is understood to be the favorite to sign the player this summer.
He can be played on the right of the flanks where Paulinho or Dembele have started majorly. Barcelona would be greatly benefit with his flexibility in the engine room.
He is the player Barca must pursue to solve their midfield problems. Handing him the number #8 would be an icing on the cake.
# 3. Denis Suarez
Barcelona boast a sensational crop of young talent, like they always have. Denis Suarez is one of such players who has shown his potential despite being short on opportunities.
The fans have said much about the player who they believe is a perfect option to fill in for the departing legend. His positioning and skills give a slight glimpse of Iniesta in his early days.
The 24 year-old has featured 24 times this season in all competitions, so far majorly coming on as a substitute.
Iniesta's departure would mean his game-time must increase at the Camp Nou. Without a shred of doubt, he is a talented player but he needs to work on his finishing and decisiveness in the final third.
However, if he can convince Valverde to hand him the legendary #8 the coming season, it would highlight the trust of the fans placed in him.
# 2. Thiago
Thiago is arguably the one player Barcelona regret selling in recent time. The Spanish midfielder moved to Germany in 2013 after a mediocre start with the Cules.
The Bayern star fulfilled his potential under Pep Guardiola and is now a world-class player to have in one's team. Barcelona have been linked with the player in the past.
2017/18 wasn't a bright season for him as he struggled with few injuries. Nevertheless, he is a player at his prime and a must-have one, too.
He has scored seven goals and assisted three goals this term in 27 appearances, in all competitions so far. A world class player can be expected to hit the ground running.
The 27-year-old is reportedly seeking a return to his parent club this summer. Barcelona do not have a reason to reject the player. The regista role is what Valverde wishes to have an upgrade over and Thiago fits the bill.
He is a personal favorite to don the number #8 at the Camp Nou for years to come ahead.
# 1. Philippe Coutinho
Having shelled out more than £140 million for the player, Barca finally appear to be getting the player they thought they had signed.
He was brought to the club with the primary intention of replacing the Spanish legend. The Brazilian has steadily adapted to Spanish football but still has a lot to prove at the club.
The former Liverpool man is definitely a world-class player who can tear defences apart on his day with some effort. The onus is now on him to step-up and complete the job he was bought for.
Though he has been given the number 14, his positioning and style of play would justify the club's idea of handing him Iniesta's #8.
If he manages to repeat even 70 percent of his performances from his time in England, he would be a supreme asset at the Camp Nou.
He has a big season lying in front on him.
All the stats via transfermarkt
