Johan Cruyff
© Offside
Appearances: 184
Goals: 61
Trophies: 1x La Liga, 1x Copa del Rey
When it comes to the most influential figures in the history of Barcelona, Johan Cruyff may well top the pile having enjoyed defining spells at the club as a player, manager and adviser.
It is difficult not to recognise Cruyff's impact on the club Barcelona have become - indeed, the emergence of the likes of Andres Iniesta, Xavi and Lionel Messi have a lot to do with the Dutchman - but even when judging him solely on his on-field exploits, Cruyff is worthy of a place on this list.
Following an illustrious spell with Ajax, Cruyff joined Barca for a world-record fee in 1973 after Spain's ban of signing foreign players was lifted. The ultimate exponent of 'Total Football' immediately endeared himself to the Barcelona faithful by turning down a move to Real Madrid due to their association with Spanish dictator Francisco Franco.
By the time Cruyff made his debut for the club they sat just one place off the bottom of the table, but they subsequently went unbeaten for the remainder of the season to claim their first La Liga title since 1960.
Cruyff was awarded the Ballon d'Or for a third time due to his form that season, and he went on to play for five more years before moving to the United States.
Barney Corkhill
