FC Barcelona show there's life without Lionel Messi
Some detractors refer to Barça as a one-man team but last night was another reminder that this squad is capable of winning with and without the little Argentine
In a showing which was surprising to many, Barça were still able to perform at the level Ernesto Valverde expects despite not having a certain Argentinian superstar available. The team demonstrated once again they're capable of producing the goods without Lionel Messi, the greatest player of all time. Valverde deserves praise for turning a negative situation into a positive one.
The coach is used to dealing with difficult situations. Let's not forget Neymar was sold not long before he had taken charge of first team duties. This forced him to reshape the side and switch to a 4-4-2, making the collective more solid. Last night he included Rafinha in his starting XI rather than Ousmane Dembele. Many expected the Frenchman to come in as a natural replacement for Messi but both he and fellow new signing Malcom had to make do with a place on the bench. Maybe revenge was on Rafinha's mind after he came up against the club which toyed with making a move for him this summer but ultimately decided against it.
"In Milan the empathy was immediate and natural but I believe the doors were closed on that (move) in the summer," is what Rafinha said in the build up to this match. Yesterday he got on the scoresheet. The midfielder showed exactly what he is capable of.
Rafinha's performance opens the debate as to who replaces Messi for El Clasico. However what does appear clear is that Arthur is now a key part of the starting lineup. The Brazilian plays like someone who was born and raised in the Camp Nou and continues to justify the comparisons with Xavi. Arthur is here to stay. The love the supporters already have for him was seen at the moment Valverde decided to give Arthur a rest and bring on Arturo Vidal. The crowd whistled, they wanted more of their new hero.
qualification remAINS on course
Jordi Alba's goal in the second half saw Barça secure nine points from nine in their opening three Champions League fixtures. They are now 3 points ahead of Inter and move even further ahead of Tottenham and PSV who are both on just one point. It was also a victory which should serve to boost confidence in the team going into El Clasico. Once again, they must prove they don't depend on just Messi.
Last night Messi was available to enjoy the match alongside his son. The image of the Argentine, with his arm in a sling, applauded Alba's goal with young Thiago. It was a crucial victory as we all know how important the Champions League is to the greatest player of all time.
Now it's time to wait for Real Madrid to arrive at the Camp Nou. The famous number 10 won't be there but Barça can sleep comfortable knowing that, even without Messi, they are a team to be reckoned with.
