The Croatian midfielder continues to be linked with a move away from Camp Nou but the coach is adamant that he will continue to be key to his plans
Luis Enrique says that Ivan Rakitic is still an important player for Barcelona but would not be drawn on the prospect of offering him a new contract.
The Croatia international continues to be linked with a move away from Camp Nou after falling down the pecking order since the 1-1 Clasico draw with Real Madrid in December.
Rakitic - whose contract expires in 2019 - has been linked with a transfer to Manchester City, although he stated his loyalty to his coach earlier in January, saying: "If I had to throw myself off a bridge for him, I would do it without hesitation.