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Arthur means Barcelona do not miss Iniesta, says Essien

Arthur's arrival has helped Barcelona adapt to life without Andres Iniesta ahead of the first Clasico of the season, according to former Real Madrid midfielder Michael Essien.

The Brazil international has slotted in alongside Ivan Rakitic and Sergio Busquets in Barca's midfield and has drawn comparisons to another of the club's iconic modern players, Xavi.

Arthur joined from Gremio for an initial €30 million €31m (£27m/$36m) fee plus €9m in possible variables, with his performances - particularly in the Champions League - suggesting Barca picked up a bargain.

And with the 22-year-old set to face Real Madrid on Sunday at Camp Nou, Essien feels Arthur has been the perfect replacement for former captain Iniesta, who joined Japanese side Vissel Kobe earlier in the year.