Riqui Puig's senior debut a tribute to Iniesta

There was not only the performance of Arthur for Barcelona fans to savour in Saturday night's pre-season friendly with Tottenham Hotspur, but also the first appearance of Riqui Puig.

Donning the No. 8 shirt, and the first to do so since Andres Iniesta left, the 18-year-old bore an uncanny resemblance to the iconic playmaker, who now plys his trade in Japan.

Andre Gomes' injury drew Puig into the action during the first half and he showed confidence in the face of players like Christian Eriksen, getting involved in the game as often as he could.

"It's a source of pride that Ernesto [Valverde] gives opportunities to those who have spent a lifetime in Barcelona," Puig told reporters after the 1-1 draw.

"I play as I know how to and as I have played in all age groups."

Puig is certainly of the classic Barcelona ilk, pushed by the likes of Joan Vila, Iniesta and the teenager's idol, Xavi, even if those men are no longer at the club.

Valverde will keep the midfielder in Catalonia next season, primarily with Barcelona B in Segunda B, while also allowing him to train with the senior side on occasion to continue his progression.

One of the few youngsters to have signed a new contract and believe in a challenge for first team football, Puig may be about to benefit from the coach's desire for a small squad and be one of the only La Masia prospects to step up in recent years. And at the perfect time, too.