Barcelona legend Rivaldo has slammed Barcelona’s decision to offload Ilkay Gundogan and Vitor Roque.

Ilkay Gundogan is to make a return to Manchester City on a free transfer after agreeing to leave Barca. Also, Vitor Roque is poised to join Real Betis on loan.

Speaking about the two departures, Rivaldo told Betfair: “If it is confirmed, Barça are going to miss him (Gundogan) a lot.

“He is a great player. With his signing, the one who will certainly win is Manchester City. In my opinion, he should stay at Barcelona. He is needed to help the team be strong in the competitions they will play, both in Spain and Europe. Gundogan is a great player.

“Vitor is going to a great club (Real Betis). It’s a great team to play for. I think it will be easier for him to compete in a league like the Spanish league, where he will show that he is a great player. Being in the same league as Barça will help him.

“He’s going to show that the team has been too hasty in accepting his departure and letting him go this season. He has everything to make his time at Betis a success, with minutes and the support of a great fanbase.”

Gundogan had a good debut season where he was key for Barcelona. The German midfielder had 19 goal contributions in 52 appearances for Barca last season.