LaLiga 2018-19: 3 Things we learned from the El Clasico

#2 Arthur looks like the real deal

Arthur was sensational for Barcelona again

Another game and another sumptuous display by Barcelona’s summer recruit, Arthur. Having been likened to his legendary predecessor Xavi, the pressure has been on the Brazilian ever since he first stepped on to the pitch. However, the diminutive Brazilian has lived up to his billing every single time.

In the biggest match of his short Barcelona career, Arthur started off elegantly. He glided across the pitch, created space for himself and spread passes with laser-guided precision. At one point in time, he had made close to 30 passes without having misplaced any. Alongside Busquets, he kept the ball moving and recycled it with aplomb.

With him in midfield, the defenders always had a passing outlet. Moreover, his ability to make defenders gravitate towards him before whistling away, creates time and space for his teammates.

However, the biggest positive was the way he handled the pressure of his first Clasico. Despite being thrown into the deep end, Arthur emerged with his head held high. Though the comparisons to Xavi Hernandez are still a little premature, performances like this would only add fuel to the ‘Barcelona have found Xavi’s replacement’ fire.

With Barcelona not enjoying a lot of success with their traditional 4-3-3 this term, one can expect Arthur to get a long run of games. At this juncture, he looks like Barcelona’s best signing over the last couple of transfer windows.

And if he can be even half as good as the great Xavi, Barcelona would have on their hands a sparkling gem.