Turkish international star Arda Turan and Ivan Rakitic have been competing for a place in the Barcelona team but it seems off the field they are best of friends.
Turan responded to rumours that a rift was brewing between the two players by sharing a picture on his official picture alongside Rakitic with both players giving it the thumbs up.
Morning flight to Gijon… pic.twitter.com/DFYGZFqPp1
— Arda Turan (@ArdaTuran) February 17, 2016
The arrival of Turan increased competition in midfield with the bearded winger being alternated with Rakitic.
Turan is however, capable of playing in other positions and has actually been deployed in four different roles so far by head coach Luis Enrique – right midfield, left midfield, right wing and left wing.
Rakitic was recently asked by the Hurriyet newspaper if he felt threatened by the arrival of Turan.
“I have been hear for almost two seasons and established myself in the team. The arrival of Arda does not worry me it just shows how strong the team is I do not fear being dropped,” Rakitic said.
Turan and Rakitic have both been included in the Barcelona squad ahead of the La Liga clash against Sporting Gijon tonight.
The two midfielders will also play against each other in the European Championships this summer as Croatia and Turkey will meet in the group stages.
See More
Barcelona Player Profile: Arda Turan – The Bearded Genius
Three reasons Arda Turan could be a success at Barcelona
