Barcelona has barely changed, says Keita

Dalian Aerbin midfielder Seydou Keita believes Barcelona have not changed significantly since he left Camp Nou.

The Mali international spent four years of his career with the Blaugrana, before moving to the Chinese side on a free transfer.

And having completed a training session with his former club, he said everything has remained exactly as he remembered it.

“I was on holiday and I called (Barcelona coach) Tito (Vilanova) to see if I could train a bit with the team. He told me it was fine. I turn 33 in January, but being able to train here makes me feel like a child,” Keita said.

“It’s like nothing has changed at all. I’m very proud to be here with my team-mates and friends.”

He then commented on what he believes is the winning formula of the successful Catalonian side.

“Tito was also there for those four years and the team is the same as before and that’s why they keep on winning,” he said.

“There is a mentality and a humility to the team which creates a great atmosphere.”

Keita appeared 192 times for Barcelona between 2008 and 2012, scoring 16 goals.