Ivan Rakitic has paid tribute to Luis Enrique for bringing him to Barcelona and hailed the influence of club legend Xavi.

Rakitic, 28, was one of the players Luis Enrique asked the club to sign when the former Barca player was appointed first-team boss in 2014.

The Croatia international has helped the Blaugrana to back-to-back domestic doubles and a UEFA Champions League title, though he has dropped down the pecking order this season and has made only 10 La Liga starts and has not been in the first XI in the league since the Clasico defeat to Real Madrid.

But Rakitic told France Football his current coach has still been a major factor in his development.

"Luis Enrique has helped me enormously," Rakitic said. "He gave me confidence straight away, as did my teammates, which enabled me to work calmly.

Ivan Rakitic joined Barcelona from Sevilla in 2014. David Ramos/Getty Images

"It's the 'Mister' who asked the club to sign me. If I had to throw myself off a bridge for him, I would do it without hesitation. With a look or a smile, he gives you the confidence necessary to succeed."

Rakitic's arrival helped Barca handle the transition in midfield as Xavi left the club, with the two players spending one season together at the Camp Nou before the Spain international left to play for Al Sadd in Qatar.

Xavi's influence is still felt on and off the pitch, however, through the lasting impression he made on Rakitic.

"Xavi gave me a lot. I have just two words to say to him, 'Thank you,'" Rakitic added. "The only thing I regret is to have played just a single season with him.

"I learned so much from on and off the pitch, during our away trips, in the dressing-room. I took advantage of every moment by his side during that season. What Xavi gave this club, his teammates and the fans is unique."