We don't know if he's declined or not. But his role, his style of play has changed. He's now more of a playmaker than he's ever been. That's why you often see him leave his position. I don't think of it as an obstacle since Busquets is extremely intelligent and creative, but an opportunity. In order to make the most of it, you need different players in other midfield spots. When he goes upfield, you need someone to cover for him, there you have Rakitić who's a perfect fit. But when Busquets comes back and Rakitić is asked to do something with the ball, to pass it forward, he struggles. That's one of our main midfield problems. He excels though in 4-4-2 when his main job is to take care at the back and come up front when he sees space, which he's good at. Example: Betis game in which Roberto played as a midfielder or games with Paulinho in form.