The 31-year-old falls into the ‘journeyman’ category after playing for 10 different clubs - excluding Barça - since 2007.
His last spell at one of Europe’s powerhouses was in 2016 with AC Milan, but his career appeared to be winding down before the unexpected call from Ernesto Valverde.
“I would like to thank everyone for the opportunity to come to this great club,” a stunned Boateng was quoted as saying by his new club’s official website.
“I am really happy and they have been two incredible days so far. It’s an honor to be here and I want to enjoy it and win everything.”
It was a case of straight into the deep end for the Ghanaian international, who started up front for Barça against Sevilla in the Copa del Rey on Wednesday night.
Boateng led the line at the Estadio Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán, flanked by Malcom and Carles Alena, and played 63 minutes before being subbed off for Luis Suarez.
Barça, who were without the rested Lionel Messi, were already 1-0 down by this point and went on to lose the match 2-0.
But how did Boateng fare on his first performance for the Catalan giants?Sevilla v FC Barcelona - Copa del Rey Quarter FinalNot too bad, actually. He managed to make a largely positive impression with one aspect of his game, in particular, catching the eye of football fans.
Boateng made the most of his 6ft 1in powerful physique by holding the ball up time and time again.p1d1ufqu9auqs7de1at4j1db6d9.jpgValverde clearly wanted him to play a target man role in the center-forward position, bringing his teammates into play, and he did an impressive job.
Many football fans who watched the action unfold live made same observation on Twitter…
KPB hold up is elite looooool Messi is gonna love him
— Heisenberg (@__Abyyy__) January 23, 2019
KPB's started well for Barcelona. His hold-up play is putting Giroud's to shame
— Ghoochannejhad (@_C_hacha) January 23, 2019
Love what I’m seeing from KPB so far. Nice clean touches, letting the play flow, getting everyone involved in the build up. His hold up game is on point #CopaBarça #SevillaBarça
— FCB News (@fcbnewsofficial) January 23, 2019
Hasn't really had too many looks at goal by KPB been quite good so far in linking with teammates and holding up the ball.
— Robbie Dunne (@robbiejdunne) January 23, 2019
Really liking KPB's game so far. When he actually has folks to link up with he's going to be very effective.
— totalBarça (@totalBarca) January 23, 2019
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