What does Xavi's appointment mean for Memphis at Barcelona?

Playing at a very high level for the Dutch national team and immersed in a small drop in form with Barcelona, a new era is about to begin for Memphis Depay.

He has lost his biggest supporter and his 'godfather' Ronald Koeman, who was one of the main reasons Memphis decided to join Barça on a free transfer from Lyon when he had better offers from elsewhere.

The appointment of Xavi as Koeman's replacement leaves him in a different position. He was untouchable for Koeman and the main man in attack, if only due to injuries at tines, but things could change now.

It's true that he's adapted well to the dressing room, but that doesn't mean Koeman's exit is not a blow for him. The Dutchman worked with him as the Netherlands boss and always showed faith in him, even during tough times.

Farewell message

"You gave my career a new impulse, I am very grateful for that," Memphis wrote on Instagram. "I have the upmost respect for you as a coach, but above all as a human. I hope we meet again in the future to work together. Thanks, boss."

On a sporting level, though, Xavi doesn't have a lot of options in attack right now. With Aguero, Braithwaite, Dembele and Ansu Fati all injured, it's almost a given that Memphis plays.

We will see if and how he fits Xavi's idea in a system where everyone has to run and press without the ball. Memphis' role generates the most questions.

"I don't know him," Memphis said recently. "He has experience at the top level of the game. I have to speak about things with him."