Can Rodri Fill Lionel Messi's Void at Barcelona?

Excerpt: Rodri’s move to Barcelona gives the club a world-class midfielder, but expecting him to fill Lionel Messi’s void would be unrealistic. Messi was Barcelona’s match-winner, goalscorer and creative force for more than a decade, while Rodri’s influence comes from controlling the midfield and dictating the tempo. His arrival can, however, address an important need for the Catalan giants. Rodri can protect the defence, help Barcelona dominate possession and give players like Pedri and Lamine Yamal greater freedom in attack. His experience at Manchester City and with Spain could also prove valuable in big games. Rodri cannot replace Messi, but he can help build Barcelona’s next era.