Valdés has a hand in Europe

Valdés's interventions are almost as important for Barcelona as Messi's goals. The keeper has saved many a game and often comes into his own under the pressure of an important game.

Everyone remembers his brilliant saves during the Paris final at which Barça won its second Champions League. He stopped two clear goals from Thierry Henry, which could have decided the final.

Playing against the best has the effect of raising Valdés's game; something he demonstrated in the two finals played against Manchester United. In the first, won in Rome, he neutralised any danger posed by Cristiano Ronaldo, who watched as Barcelona lifted the trophy for a convincing 2-0 victory.

In the second final, it was not CR7, but Rooney who was United's star. The English team started very strong, looking to tie things up swiftly, but Valdés took it upon himself to ruin United's two big chances in the opening ten minutes.

Everyone is aware that this could be Valdés's last Champions League in defence of the Barça colours. His intention not to renew his contract, which ends in 2014, could lead the club to try to turn a profit from a June sale.