The ratings for Barcelona’s first Liga game of 2018.
Marc-André ter Stegen
Made a couple of crucial saves as the Camp Not crowd has become so accustomed to. In truth, anytime Levante broke in behind you backed ter Stegen to take care of it.
You say: 8
Sam says: 8
Sergi Roberto
Roberto’s attacking contributions have come on leaps and bounds as he registered his third assist in as many games. His speed to get down the wing and then accuracy to find Suárez in the box was excellent. Also helped out at the back when Alba pushed forward.
You say: 8
Sam says: 8
Thomas Vermaelen
Playing with an unfamiliar defensive partner, Vermaelen contained the Levante attack well. Making a tackle and an interception but he was caught out sometimes. The goalkeeper saved them but there was a slight concern.
You say: 8
Sam says: 7
Javier Mascherano
A potentially difficult game for Mascherano with both full backs pushing high. One of Mascherano’s great strengths has always been his positioning and his was evidence here. He is not blessed with pace so must position himself to be effective. Was on occasion caught but ter Stegen or the offside flag bailed him out
You say: 8
Sam says: 7
Jordi Alba
Jordi Alba’s partnership with Messi is quickly becoming one of the most important in the team. The seemingly telepathic understanding between the two has provided chance after chance and the opening goal of this game came through that route. The directness of his runs in behind are very good and allow Barça to quickly get in at goal. Looked to have done himself some damage in the dying minutes of the game.
You say: 8
Sam says: 9
Ivan Rakitić
Excelling again in the Busuqets role. Rakitić saw a lot more of the ball then he does when he is shipped out wide and it allows him to find his rhythm quicker. This game he was producing incisive passes from deeper whilst providing a good screen from the defence. With the signing of Coutinho and the return to fitness for Dembélé, it is unlikely we will se the Croatian on the wing again which will benefit him.
You say: 7
Sam says: 8
Andrés Iniesta
Another controlling performance from the captain. Take the ball, pass the ball, take the ball, pass the ball. Iniesta was keeping the tempo ticking along from the centre of midfield. He was also keen to push the defenders forward, actively encouraging Vermaelen to bring the ball out from defence. Left the field in the 75th minute.
You say: 8
Sam says: 7
Paulinho
A quiet game from the Brazilian in which he did not see a lot of the ball. The majority of the midfield play seemed to come down Iniesta’s left side and meant Paulinho became a little isolated. However, he did crop up to get a customary late goal.
You say: 7
Sam says: 7
Ousmane Dembélé
In Dembélé’s first league game since his injury, he was very good. Frequently picking the ball up in dangerous positions and looking to pose a threat. However he did on occasion do too much on the ball whether that be through too many touches or sacrificing possession, the sharpness was not quite there. Despite that, some slack must be given for a player returning from such a long spell out.
You say: 7
Sam says: 7
Lionel Messi
Got the ball rolling with the opening goal and another great link up play with Alba. He was the one seeing most of the ball in the first half but his influence dipped in the second half. Retreating further to get the ball, he had a lot to do once he did receive. He was also wasteful with the free kicks. Assisted Paulinho in the dying seconds.
You say: 10
Sam says: 8
Luis Suárez
Contuing his good form towards the latter end of 2017, Suárez was busy throughout. His goal was a wonderful example of his ability. Usuing the pace of Roberto’s cross, his first touch set him up for the perfect volley and one that required a good amount of technique. Saw less of the ball in the second half.
You say: 8
Sam says: 8
Nélson Semedo
Relinquished from Roberto of his defensive duties but did not see a massive amount of the ball.
You say: 7
Sam says: 7
Andre Gomes
Showed some attacking flair in his brief spell on the pitch.
You say: 7
Sam says: 7
José Arnáiz
Only played a few minutes.
You say: 7
Sam says: N/A
Ernesto Valverde
Set the team out well and made wise substitutions. The introduction of Arnáiz will please fans.
You say: 8
Sam says: 8
The Team
A very pleasing performance in which everyone played their part, the full backs in particular were impressive.
You say: 8
Sam says: 8
MOTM?
You say: Lionel Messi
Sam says: Jordi Alba
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