Rakitic: There will never be another Xavi

EXCLUSIVE: The Croatia international has nothing but praise for the experienced playmaker, while also hailing Lionel Messi and Neymar's individual quality

Barcelona midfielder Ivan Rakitic has voiced his admiration for Xavi and believes there will never be another player like the ex-Spain international.

Rakitic joined Barcelona from Sevilla this summer and is widely regarded as the long-term successor to Xavi.

However, the Croatia international has stressed that he doesn't want to be likened to the influential playmaker, arguing that his new team-mate is without equal.

"There will never be a replacement for Xavi. He is the absolute maximum in football," Rakitic told Goal.

"He is not only one of the best players in the world, but he's a great captain and person as well. There will never be anyone like him again.

"I just want to be Ivan Rakitic. I want to play my own game and give my all for the team. I want to be recognised for what I do. I'm here to prove myself on the pitch.

"Players like Xavi and Andres Iniesta make life easier for you on the pitch. They have won everything during their careers, but they are still hungry for more. You learn from them each day and that's the best thing. I am here to improve my game."

The 26-year-old also had his say on Neymar and Lionel Messi, revealing that it is a joy to play alongside two players both blessed with the ability to make something happen out of nothing.

"It is always a bit different to play with the best in the world," Rakitic enthused. "You know that even if you give a bad pass, they can still do something good with it.

"We know that thanks to them we have something extra compared to other teams. We can hurt every opponent. This might not have been possible without them. But the key thing remains that all the players contribute both on and off the ball."

Barcelona appointed Luis Enrique as their new coach this summer following the departure of Gerardo Martino and Rakitic is happy to be working under the former Roma and Celta de Vigo boss.

"All coaches are difference," he mused. "Every coach has his own ideas and philosophy. Luis Enrique is very clear in what he wants. We are working well under him and are hungry to play each and every game.

"He is incredibly professional. He goes into each and every detail. We have to understand that his ideas are what are best for Barcelona and the team."

Barcelona have won all four of their official games under Luis Enrique so far this term.