Barcelona player ratings after the 6-1 thrashing of Sporting Gijon

Marc-Andre ter Stegen 6

Could do nothing about the goal. Had some work to do in the first half but spent the second as a spectator.

Javier Mascherano 7 

Suffered a lot in the first half thanks to Burgui’s fine showing. However he provided an excellent assist for Messi’s opener. Despite some discomfort as a right-back, his professionalism and hard work helped him succeed.

Samuel Umtiti 6

The Frenchman could have been quicker to dealing with the ball off the post that Carlos Castro converted. Improved after the break.

Jordi Alba 7

The left-back became the third centre-back when Barcelona were on the ball. This stopped him getting forward as much as usual. Freer in the second half and hit the post after a great move by Neymar.

Sergio Busquets 6

Still not at his best, lost a lot of balls and was insecure in his area of the pitch. Sporting’s goal came after he was beaten. We need him to find his best self. Luckily he has the quality and intelligence that helps us believe against PSG he will be able to do it.

Ivan Rakitic 7

The Croatian was a bit unnoticed at first but after Messi went off, moved forward and started looking for goal. In the end he lashed in a strike to finish the rout.

Denis Suarez 6

Started slowly but improved. Was a bit timid, not a protagonist, but as the game advanced, he found his place and showed many of his virtues. 

Lionel Messi 8

Opening the can with a goal that is not from his playbook, seeing the goalkeeper off his line and chipping him with a header. Later hit the bar from a free-kick and set up Alcacer.

Rafinha 6

Worked hard and was dynamic in his play, combining with Rakitic and offering himself. Still, lacked a bit of accuracy when it came to shooting.

Luis Suarez 8

The Uruguayan forced the own goal and scored a stunning volley of his own. Went off at half-time to rest.

Neymar 8

Covered the pitch in an impressive run, although his final shot was saved. The he scored a free-kick to get his first goal of the season at Camp Nou in La Liga.

SUBS

Alcacer 7

Gomes 6 Sergi Roberto 6