When we talk about Johan Cruyff, Diego Maradona and Ronaldinho, we are not just talking about three great players. We are talking about three players with a genuine case for being include in an all-time top 10. But what do they have in common?
Getting off to a good start at a new club is essential, it relieves the pressure and gives you the support of the crowd immediately. Cruyff, Maradona and Ronaldinho are three players who know how to get off to a flyer, with the trio all having scored on their Barcelona debut.
Cruyff even bagged a double on September 5 1973 as Barca cruised to a 6-0 win over Belgian side Bruges, though one was a penalty. It was a dream debut for the Dutchman, with 75,000 fans in attendance.
Maradona's first game wasn't quite such a joyous occasion. Despite scoring, Barca fell to a 2-1 defeat to a Mario Kempes-inspired Valencia side on September 4 1982.
Last but not least, Ronaldinho. The Brazilian market his debut with a spectacular goal against Sevilla in the famous midnight match. The game took place on Spetember 3 2003, with Barca playing out a 1-1 draw, nicely completing the list following Cruyff's victory and Maradona's defeat.