Ivan Rakitic has insisted that he is a different player to Barcelona legend Xavi.

Rakitic, who arrived at the Camp Nou from Sevilla this summer, has been picked out as the individual to replace Xavi when the long-serving midfielder eventually hangs up his boots.

However, the Croatian has played down comparisons with the La Masia graduate.

"It's nice that people are saying that I am the successor of Xavi but I'm Rakitic. Replacements for such a great player like Xavi don't exist," he told Sportske Novosti.

"I can't wait to start the league. We worked a lot [in pre-season] and I hope that this will show on the field. Barcelona are powerful again. I always wanted to join Barcelona. It was my desire."

Barcelona open their La Liga season at home to Elche on Sunday.

Written by
Matt Law