In 2002, after seven successful seasons with
Boca Juniors, the central midfielder was transferred to FC
Barcelona for 9 million Euros. Due to the club's struggling
fortunes, there was intense pressure on Riquelme to perform well.
He was unable to find his form, losing his place in the first
team and was loaned to Villarreal a year later, where he
currently plays alongside fellow Argentine international Juan
Pablo Sorín. |