Barcelona player ratings from Athletic Club demolition
Claudio Bravo 7
Had a bit of work to do early on, after an error by Pique and an attack from De Marcos. Just another spectator in the second half.
Aleix Vidal 8
Great game on the right. Fast, smart and always ready to do damage down his wing. A rapid adaptation, as was hoped for.
Gerard Pique 6
Started with an error, but improved after. Athletic losing a man meant he had less to do.
Javier Mascherano 6
Keeps having problems with fast players and struggles in transitions. Became the Barcelona player with the fourth most appearances as a player signed from abroad, on 258, behind Alves, Cocu and Koeman.
Jordi Alba 6
Bad luck saw him taken off with what could be a hamstring injury. It didn't look good and the doctor asked for him to be changed almost immediately.
Sergio Busquets 8
Another football lecture. Excelled with the ball at his feet and in recovering it. His play is always at a magesterial class.
Ivan Rakitic 8
The Croatian worked well as a right interior. His hard work was compensated by a great assist from Neymar.
Andres Iniesta 9
The magician went through his repertoire. Some great work, in league with Neymar. All his balls have a purpose.
Lionel Messi 7
The crack noticed some minor muscle discomfort, and decided not to come out for the second half. Scored a goal from the penalty spot before that, and showed off his fifth Ballon d'Or.
Luis Suarez 9
Cristiano and Benzema shared the Pichichi for a few hours with Neymar and Suarez. Then the Uruguayan hit three goals, earned a penalty and gave an assist. What more could you ask for?
Neymar 9
The best player on the pitch. If there is a footballer that sums up exactly what spectacle is, it's him. His skills and dribles are incredible. A great goal with a chip and two fine assists.
SUBS
Arda Turan 7
Set up a goal for Suarez with a cross from the right.
Sergi Roberto 7
Every time he plays there are less positions on the pitch he hasn't appeared in - was a left-back here.
Marc Bartra N/A
