The complete guide to FC Barcelona's 2018-19 squad

Barça have started this season without Andres Iniesta but do have new signings Artruo Vidal, Malcom, Lenglet and Arthur to call upon. Ernesto Valverde wanted a smaller squad compared to last season and this summer has gone extremely well. The club has a negative net spend of €5.8m (€137.7m from sales, €131.9m on new arrivals). They also have two academy stars in Riqui Puig and Miranda pushing for minutes as well as the returning from injury duo, Samper and Aleña. Together they will fight for the Champions League title the club is so desperate to win again.

Here is a complete guide to the entire squad.

1 - Ter Stegen - goalkeeper

A goalkeeper who is ready to make history. He arrived to little fanfare but is now one of the pillars of this Barça side. His distrubition helps open up the team and he offers security between the sticks. 

2 - Semedo - defender

The Portuguese full back needed a season to adapt to the Camp Nou and this year he'll be expected to kick on and make the right back slot his own. After his first preseason at the club, expectations are high for Semedo.

3 - Piqué - defender

The captain on and off the pitch. The centre back is one of the most recognisable faces in the squad. He never bites his tongue and always gives his all on the pitch. This year he's the third captain - and he deserves it.

4 - Rakitic - midfielder

After a fantastic World Cup he decided to reject the riches of PSG to stay at Barcelona. He's got a lot of competition this season but he's a key player in Valverde's eyes. 

5 - Busquets - midfielder

The definition of balance. When he isn't in the team, it breaks down. He's a key member of Barcelona's spine and he'll continue that way this season. There's still no able replacement for him, so he'll play more than most.

6 - Denis Suárez - midfielder

One to watch under Valverde. He spent most of last season in the shadows but was given a chance towards the end and proved his worth. He's a talented player but he'll need to fight hard to earn a starting place in midfield.

7 - Coutinho - midfielder

The Brazilian arrived in January but looks like a new signing this season. The supporters are desperate to see what he can do after a bright start and he looks set to have a great future at the Camp Nou. 

8 - Arthur - midfielder

Few people expected Arthur to adapt so fast to life at Barcelona. After a wonderful preseason campaign he's another potential breakout star. He hasn't played much in the early games but expect that to change as the season hots up.

9 - Suárez - forward

The Uruguayan's non-stop work allows Messi the freedom he needs to inflict damage. Despite his advancing years, Suarez is still one of the best strikers in the world of football and is the ideal teammate for Messi.

10 - Messi - forward

Even though Crisitano has left LaLiga now, Messi isn't thinking about taking his foot off the accelerator. In the club's presentation he gave a warning to teams with aspirations of winning the Champions League this season. If the Argentine wants something enough, he tends to do it. 

11 Dembélé - forward

The talented winger is more focused than last season, he looks happier out on the pitch too. The French man could be key as Barcelona look to win every trophy within their grasp.

12 - Rafinha - midfielder

It looked at one point as if Rafinha was going to leave but, in the end, he's staying put. The Brazilian will be another option for Valverde and after a fine preseason campaign, he should get regular minutes.

13 - Cillessen - goalkeeper

Very few clubs can claim to have such a high quality backup goalkeeper. He's always relaxed about his role and is a great teammate to ter Stegen.

14 - Malcom - forward

The Brazilian's arrival was unpexected but in time he'll begin to force his way into Valverde's plans. Barça is an unknown to the player but he's one of the most talented youngsters in the world of football. Patience is required.

15 - Lenglet - defender

Barcelona have been searching for the man to complete their centre back options and they've found him. The French defender will start the season as third choice but has the talent to eventually force his way into the starting line up. He's also very good with the ball at his feet.

16 - Samper - midfielder

The academy star has been one of the most talked about names in the city and finally has the chance to prove himself with the first team. Born and bread in La Masia, the only thing he's lacking is a bit of luck when it comes to injuries. He could be an alternative to Busquets.

18 - Jordi Alba - defender

Despite being left out of Luis Enrique's Spain squad, the left back is a certain starter under Valverde. His non-stop, energetic pace up and down the left hand side is crucial to Barça's system. Links up perfectly with Messi too.

19 - Munir - forward

After working himself into the ground, Munir has convinced everybody that he deserves another chance at Barcelona. He can play anywhere across the forward line.

20 - Sergi Roberto - defender/midfielder

He continues to be Barcelona's Swiss Army Knife. He's equally as great at right back as he is in midfield. He's an example to everyone and was rewarded by being named the club's fourth captain.

22 - Arturo Vidal - midfielder

Every club needs someone like the Chilean. Vidal brings that grit and power which you can't teach, it's something you're born with. His competitiveness will make the squad even stronger.

23 - Umtiti - defender

After winning the World Cup with France, he's now set his sights on the Champions League. If he reaches his highest level, there's no one better than him. His charisma has conquered the Camp Nou too. 

24 - Vermaelen - defender

A reliable backup. Last season Vermaelen showed that, when called upon, he's still got top performances in his locker. Only injuries let him down. If he can stay fit and remain available, Valverde has an embarrassment of riches to chose from at centre back.