This new season in FC Barcelona will be one of the most competitive ones internally in recent seasons, the centre-back position is one of the most over booked ones there are. Argentine player Javier Mascherano had been concerned over his future inside the club and he demanded answers in the past few months. However, he finally got what he asked for and now feels very satisfied with the role he will play inside the club in the upcoming season.
After beating Leicester City 4-2 in the International Champions Cup, Javier Mascherano talked about the issues he had with the club: "I won't lie, there were some issues, though some of it was an exaggeration, but overall I am happy the club still is counting on me. It is always important when you end a season, and even more so at my age, that you ask if you are helping the club and if the club is helping you. Above all, I want to thank the club - I am delighted that they are happy with me and that they believe I can still contribute."
But now that the new season is about to start, Javier Mascherano remains next to Gerard Pique, as the starting centre-back for Luis Enrique. Due to his various doubts after finding out about the new arrivals in his position, people like Samuel Umtiti and Brazilian wonder kid Marlon Santos are among the players who will be fighting for a position against the experienced player. However, Luis Enrique knows how versatile Mascherano is and know he can also be used as Busquets' replacement.
Photo credit: FC Barcelona