Barcelona player ratings: Messi the best on show vs Athletic

Jasper CIllessen 6

The truth is that the goalkeeper couldn’t add anything here, nothing to highlight. At least he didn’t complicate life. 

Sergi Roberto 6

A quiet game. Didn’t bring anything to the attack, and  Saborit’s goal was his fault as he did not even jump to try and defend it.

Gerard Pique 7

The central defender received continuous support from the stands because of his stand-off with the referees. Did well, continuously correcting for Sergi Roberto’s runs forward, always alert.

Samuel Umtiti 6

Strangely had a couple of unforced errors when bringing it out. Stood out for his aerial play. Slow in more than one action, not a game to remember. 

Jordi Alba 7

Very good at an attacking level and complete when it came to defending. Only lacked a bit of precision and accuracy.

Sergio Busquets 6

Strange game when he mixed good play and bad, a few errors although in many moments he marked the rhythm of the game. 

Rafinha Alcantara 6

Didn’t play too badly but has to show more to start on a regular basis. Won the ball back well but some unnecessary plays too. At least didn’t lose it in important areas. 

Andres Iniesta 7

A neat set-up helped Neymar break clear for Suarez’s disallowed goal, ruled out unfairly. Improved throughout, conscious that the team needed him.

Leo Messi 9

Cristiano is officially The Best, but the entire world knows who is better. Even his son is starting to suspect it. They could only stop him with fouls. His ambition and intelligence led to Suarez’ goal. And later his free-kick saw Barcelona through.

Luis Suarez 7

The Uruguayan played a game with more shadows than lights, but still scored with a scandalously good volley. Had more than one moment where he could have added to his lead but did not. Too generous to Athletic’s defence.

Neymar 7

You can say many things about the Brazilian but the truth is he never hides. He set up Suarez but the goal was ruled out unfairly for offside. A few minutes later the same protagonists combined to score. Later he ended his goal drought with a penalty.