Where Barcelona's football is born

The engine room, the beating heart of the Blaugranas, the lungs of FC Barcelona – the middle of the park is undoubtedly the area of the pitch where Barcelona's football is born. Ernesto Valverde has numerous options and different types of player at his disposal.

Sergi Roberto

Barcelona's Mr. Multifaceted. The academy graduate was one of the standout players in #ElClasico. Sergi Roberto is the perfect complement to Barça's attacking, midfield and defensive lines – always solid as a rock on the back foot and electric driving forward. In the second half he took up a more advanced position and provided two assists for Luis Suarez.

Ivan Rakitic

The Croat comprises one of Barcelona's lungs, an integral part of the centre of the pitch, where he belongs, and he has a presence in defence and attack. In #ElClasico he made a decisive contribution to the team's defensive work, providing cover for Sergi Roberto, and helping Arthur to circulate the ball when he had it at his feet.

Sergio Busquets

The arms of Barcelona's 'octopus' extend into every space on the field of play. He is an expert in beating the press as well as applying it. He has been Barcelona's midfield workhorse for some time now.

Arthur

The Brazilian has thrilled the Barça fans with his vision and his ability to control the ball, move it and bring others into the game – a reminder of Xavi and Andres Iniesta. He was at it again in #ElClasico, taking the midfield by the scruff of the neck and dictating Barcelona's play.

Philippe Coutinho

In addition to his trickery with the ball, the Brazilian player offers an alternative to Barcelona's passing game with his long range shooting. Coutinho is a specialist and has proven as much on several occasions. He opened the scoring in #ElClasico and constantly kept Courtois on his toes.

Rafinha

The Azulgrana has regained his prominence in the last two matches. In #ElClasico he accompanied Suarez and Coutinho going forward, while tracking back to defend and pressing effectively. His strong points are his dribbling, his ability to go past people and his shooting.

Arturo Vidal

The Chilean is cut from different cloth to the rest of his teammates, offering a more physical presence – a player who presses relentlessly and offers a goal threat. He is the perfect option to give Barcelona that consistency in the middle of the park. He did not start #ElClasico, but made the most of the game time afforded him by Valverde, heading home Ousmane Dembele's cross in the 87th minute.