How Barcelona can line up without Lionel Messi in the 2021/2022 season

Midfield

Central midfielder: Pedri

Pedri's explosive rise continues

Although Pedri will not be available for Barcelona's opening league clash with Real Sociedad next weekend after participating in the recently concluded Olympic tournament, the Spaniard will likely keep his place in the starting lineup next season.

The midfielder has been a huge revelation since he made his debut appearance for Barca in the 4-0 victory over Villareal on September 27 last year. He ended up making an unbelievable 52 appearances in the Blaugrana colors during the term, with a record of four goals and six assists to his name.

He was rewarded with the privilege of representing Spain at the European Championship this summer, where he racked up six appearances before turning up for the national team once again at the Olympic tournament in Tokyo.

Central midfielder: Frenkie de Jong

Frenkie de Jong is favored by Koeman

The Dutchman was given an advanced role in midfield last season and he took it with both hands, finishing as the most prolific midfielder in the squad with seven goals and eight assists to his name.

Frenkie de Jong continues firing on all cylinders. He put up some fine performances for the Netherlands at the Euros recently and returned to Camp Nou early to kick-start preparations for the upcoming season. The 24-year-old was included in the lineup for the pre-season clash with Salzburg, spending 83 minutes on the pitch.

Defensive midfielder: Sergio Busquets

Busquets is Barca's current captain

Sergio Busquets is set to take a massive role in the Barcelona squad next season. The midfielder has been announced as the team's new captain following the departure of Lionel Messi this summer and he's already kick-started the new era by lifting the Joan Gamper trophy.

Despite turning 33 last year, Busquets is still going strong for club and country. The Spaniard rolled back the years to produce a series of eye-catching displays while representing Spain at the Euros a few weeks ago. He was influential as La Roja made it into the semifinals of the tournament.