Lionel Messi's 5-star performance stuns manager Ernesto Valverde

Lionel Messi has once again produced a masterclass for FC Barcelona as he led his side to the top of the LaLiga table with a 5-1 victory at home to Real Valladolid. Messi was in red hot form on Tuesday where he scored a brace and assisted another two against Valladolid.

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Lionel Messi's masterclass

Clement Lenglet opened the scoring for the home side in the second minute of the game which was soon cancelled out by Valladolid defender Kiko. Valladolid, having already managed draws against Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid were hoping for another upset, but Lionel Messi apparently had other plans. He set up Arturo Vidal with a sumptuous pass in the 29th minute. Soon he made it 3-1 with a stunning freekick; his 50th for club and country. He netted his second after the break when Ivan Rakitic found him free behind the Alaves defence. Luis Suarez made it five for Barcelona in the 77th minute to seal a comfortable victory.

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Since returning from injury, it was probably the best showing by the five-time Ballon d’Or winner. He seems intent on making up for the lost time as he has netted five times and assisted a further four times in his last five games in all competitions. 

Lionel Messi against familiar foes

 

Valverde on Messi's masterclass

Barcelona manager Ernesto Valverde seems to have run out of words to describe Messi’s magnificence stating he has full faith in his captain’s ability to make something special out of the nothing. Valverde is positive Messi is returning to his best form which is very good news for the players and fans alike. Barcelona are now four points clear of Real Madrid in the league table who are set to play Leganes on Wednesday.

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