Barcelona's predicted XI for the 2018/19 season

Central Midfielders

Ivan Rakitić

FC Barcelona v Club Atletico de Madrid - La Liga — Ivan Rakitić

In the recently concluded World Cup, Ivan Rakitic oiled the wheels of Croatia's stellar campaign as the Blazers finished the tournament in the runners-up position.

The 30-year-old is a defensive workhorse and regularly pulls the strings in deep midfield with his purposeful forward passes that set up Barcelona's forays.

Sergio Busquets

Barcelona v Real Sociedad - Copa del Rey — Sergio Busquets

Over the course of the past few years, Sergio Busquets has established himself as probably the best defensive midfielder in the world.

In the 2018/19 season, he will be the nucleus of Barcelona's midfield following Iniesta's exit, anchoring the play in the middle. His excellent passing skills, mental composure in possession, and defensive contributions will definitely come in handy for La Blaugrana.

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Edited by Amar Anand