Barcelona boss Xavi has said that he has been "surprised" by Ferran Torres since his arrival in January, branding the Spaniard a "world-class" footballer.

The 21-year-old joined the Catalan giants from Manchester City during the winter transfer window and has since made eight appearances, scoring twice and contributing three assists in the process.

Speaking ahead of Sunday's La Liga clash with Athletic Bilbao, Xavi was keen to pay tribute to the attacker, calling him a "wonderful footballer".

"Perhaps Ferran has surprised me the most. He's a player on another level, he's spectacular: how he understands the space, links play, doesn't lose the ball, his defensive work... he's world-class. He's a great signing, one I wanted, and a wonderful footballer," Xavi told reporters.

The Barcelona boss has also hailed fellow January arrivals Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Adama Traore for their contributions over the last month.

"Without the January signings (the last month) would have been more difficult, of course. I have not been surprised by Aubameyang, he has always been a goal scorer. We know his quality and he's working hard for the team. Adama's decision-making has surprised me, he's matured."

Barcelona are currently fourth in the La Liga table, four points behind third-placed Real Betis, while they are 15 behind division leaders Real Madrid. body check tags ::