Why is the Number 8 So Special to FC Barcelona?

History is witness that only legends have donned the number eight jersey at FC Barcelona. Players like Guillermo Amor, Hristo Stoichkov, Albert Celades, Phillip Cocu, Arthur Melo, and Miralem Pjanic all wore the same number. However, former Barca midfielder Andres Iniesta added unreal value to that number with his amazing performances.

By far, he is the most underrated midfielder in the world, who came close to defeating Lionel Messi to the Ballon d’Or. Thus, Xavi’s new signing, Dani Alves, will have quite the responsibility on his shoulders, given his new number at Camp Nou.

The former right-back returned to the club after traveling around the globe. Moreover, Alves is back to provide that fresh impetus to the club’s younger core.

Why is the number eight jersey important at Barcelona?

The number 8 is jersey is often worn by midfielders who control aspects of the play. From Toni Kroos at Real Madrid to Saul at Atletico Madrid, they wore the famous number, controlling the proceedings from the midfield. Thus, Alves will wear the jersey, as he has also imprinted the same number, back in his days at Sevilla. The number 8 jersey is of significant value to the player, but also comes with added expectations.

Barcelona’s famous midfielders who wore that number were known for being a constant threat to the opponents’ defense. Thus, Alves’ decision to wear the number is well-received, as a good deal of symbolism can be interpreted from that move.

In the meantime, the right-back will only play matches from January as he can’t be registered right now.

READ MORE- ‘We’ll Book Our Place’ – Italy Manager Confident of World Cup Win Despite Qualification Scares

Dani Alves is a legend

Winning three Champions League titles, and six La Liga titles, Alves has enjoyed life in Spain. The former right-back helped the club to bombard on the right flanks, doing everything needed from a modern-day full-back. He was the Trents, the Walkers, and the Hakimis during his era. While many right-backs lacked at least one technical ability, Alves ticked all the boxes.

His goals are legendary, be it from long-range or an easy tap-in. With Messi on the right-hand side during Pep’s tenure, Alves and the Argentinian combined well to score many goals for the club. When it comes to defense, the wing-back gets back with commitment and puts in a fantastic challenge to disrupt play.

A menace on both sides of the pitch, Alves ruled the right-back role for many years. Thus, his arrival would be key for the present, as well as, the future generations of the club.

Sergiño Dest and Óscar Mingueza would be happy to learn the trade from one of the greatest full-backs of all time. Apart from his technical abilities, Xavi bought Alves to provide that charisma and determination to the dressing room. How do you think Alves will fare in his second stint with FC Barcelona?

WATCH THIS STORY- All of Simone Biles’ Tattoos and the Interesting Stories Behind Them