New Barcelona Signing, Arthur Plays Like Xavi – Messi

Lionel Messi has revealed that there are huge similarities between the way new Barcelona signing, Arthur plays and club legend, Xavi Hernandez.

The Argentine maestro stated that he has been very impressed with how quickly the young Brazilian midfielder has integrated himself at Barcelona.

The 22-year-old only joined Barcelona in July for £27.5million and he’s already being compared with club legend Xavi.

Messi also gave his verdict on other summer arrivals at Barcelona, be admitted that Arthur has stood out most.

“They are very good, those that have come in, in particular Arthur has surprised me as I didn’t really know him,” Messi is quoted to have said .

Arthur got his Barcelona career off to a flying start when he scored a terrific long-range effort against Tottenham in the International Champions Cup pre-season tournament. Arthur was brought in to help fill the void left by Andres Iniesta following his move to Japanese side Vissel Kobe.

“He is very similar to Xavi as he likes to have the ball, play short, not lose it and is very solid. He surprised me but I like them all. Arthur has the style we have here, he understood quickly in training. Barcelona fans like players who are good with the ball at their feet and we are used to having possession.” – Messi added.

The Brazilian midfielder starred in Barca’s 8 – 2 thrashing of Huesca on Sunday