Busquets Messi Xavi splitGetty Images

Lionel Messi, Sergio Busquets and Barcelona's top 10 players of the 21st century - ranked

It's hard to imagine Barcelona without Sergio Busquets running things from the base of midfield. However, it's a reality that culers are going to have to get used to after Busquets announced that he will be departing the club at the end of the 2022-23 season. He leaves behind an incredible legacy.

Busquets is Barca's third all-time appearance maker and has won almost every trophy available to him during his 18 years at Camp Nou. This remarkable silverware haul includes seven Copas del Rey, three Champions Leagues and a trio of Club World Cup triumphs. He is also set to leave his boyhood club on a high by adding a ninth La Liga title to his bulging collection.

Few players embody the 'Barcelona way' more than Busquets. A king of the rondo, he may not have been the most flashy player, but his ability to sniff out danger and keep hold of the ball under pressure have been vital weapons for every team he has played in. That is why Xavi was so keen for him to sign a new contract. Instead, he will be moving on, with MLS or the Saudi Pro League seen as possible destinations this summer.

Article continues below

With his Barcelona career finally over, what better time to work out where he ranks in the pantheon of the club's other modern greats. GOAL has ranked the Blaugrana's top 10 players of the 21st century: