Barcelona topple Tottenham on penalties after 2-2 draw

Ernesto Valverde expects a bright future for summer signing Artur after the Brazilian midfielder netted a stunning goal on his Barcelona debut.

The La Liga champions have lost the services of experienced midfield duo Andres Iniesta and Paulinho since the end of last season, but splashed out 40 million euros to bring in Artur from Brazilian outfit Gremio.

The 21-year-old made an instant impression in Barcelona's opening encounter in the International Champions Cup pre-season tournament yesterday after firing home in a 2-2 draw against Tottenham Hotspur, before the Catalans triumphed 5-3 on penalties.

Barcelona boss Valverde has confirmed that he still wants to add to his options in the middle of the park, but was encouraged by the early signs from Artur during an impressive first half display in Pasadena, California.

Valverde said: "He is a player that can give us a lot. He can give us possession, goals and he was really motivated today. He had a great game during the minutes that he played."
"But with or without injuries, I think that's our target [to strengthen the team] to bring in some players and add some with quality who can help us to achieve our goals."
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