Why Sergi Roberto is an unsung hero at Barcelona

Sergi Roberto has signed a new contract at Barcelona, committing to the club he first joined at 14 until the summer of 2022. A €500m buy-out clause has led to some raised eyebrows, but the versatile 25-year-old is a precious component in Barcelona's squad.

Expert testimony

"Sergi Roberto is a player to look out for over the next few years. When he bursts onto the scene, he'll catch a lot of people by surprise”
Josep Guardiola, former Barcelona coach, on the 19-year-old Sergi Roberto

"We all know him. Versatile players are important, and while he'll play more as a full-back, Sergi Roberto can be a midfield pivot or a winger and do a fine job."
Luis Enrique, former Barcelona coach

Current tally

International: 3 appearances, 1 goals
UEFA club competition: 30 appearances, 3 goals
Domestic competition: 148 appearances, 4 goals

Why he matters

Sergi Roberto is Barcelona through and through©Getty Images

• He is one of Barcelona's own. Born in Reus, 100km south of Barcelona, Sergi Roberto finished his football education at Barça's La Masia academy. His decision to stay at the club strengthens that core of home-grown talent within the squad. Blaugrana president José Maria Bartomeu called him "a player who represents the club's values", adding: "We hope he stays here the rest of his career."

• He is willing and able to fill in almost anywhere. A central midfielder by trade, Sergi Roberto was initially billed as a long-term replacement for Xavi Hernández or Andrés Iniesta, but has proved capable helping out in defence, midfield and attack over the years. Right-back may now be his long-term position, yet he is always amenable to trying new things.

• He has plenty of good years left. Barcelona have picked up 18 major honours during his Camp Nou career, including four Liga titles, and while he did not appear in their 2011 and 2015 UEFA Champions League final wins, his experience will pay off as other senior players approach retirement age.

• He scored that goal against Paris. His added-time strike in last season's round of 16 enabled Barcelona to overturn a 4-0 deficit against the French side and make it to the quarter-finals. "I told him – get into the box! You're going to score!" Neymar recalls. After the game, Sergi Roberto said: "I didn't know if I was dreaming ... I have never experienced an ovation like that."

What he says

"I'm playing a lot at full-back. I get more chances to play in this position and I'll give my all. Wherever I can get minutes will be the best position for me. I’m enjoying my new position more and more."