Rafinha was one of the stars of Barcelona‘s pre-season before fading into the background as soon as the real action kicked off.

However, Ernesto Valverde insists there is still a big role for the tough-tackling midfielder to play at the Nou Camp this season after a loan move failed to materialise before transfer deadline day.

The 25-year-old is reported to be aggrieved that Barca did not sanction a move to one of Inter Milan – where he enjoyed a productive six months on loan last term – Benfica or Real Betis.

It is understood that Rafinha has also turned down a new contract offer to stay with Blaugrana, with his contract set to expire in June 2020.

But Valverde believes the wantaway enforcer can still carve out a role in Barcelona – as long as he does enough to catch his eye.

“It’s not easy to work with players who want to play more,” said Valverde ahead of Barca’s clash against Huesca on Sunday night. “That’s not just Rafinha, it’s all players they all want to play as much as possible. We have spoken this week but they are private conversations, different ideas about what could happen.

“Ultimately he’s staying and I think that’s good news for us. He’s a player who can do a lot for us.

“Let’s see how he progresses, a lot depends on what I can see from him in training and playing games. He’s a player who has a lot to offer that’s why we want him here.”