Barcelona player ratings vs PSV: Messi shines as expected

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FC Barcelona midfielder Philippe Coutinho (7) during the UEFA Champions League match between FC Barcelona and PSV Eindhoven at Camp Nou Stadium corresponding of matchday 1, group B on September 18, 2018 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Urbanandsport/NurPhoto via Getty Images) /

Defensive Midfielder- Sergio Busquets- 7/10

Barcelona missed Sergio Busquets’ presence during their hard fought win at San Sebastian last weekend. The Spanish midfielder was back and with much good for his club. He got a highly needed balance to Barcelona and remained calm during the PSV Eindhoven counters, thanks to his experience against European giants. In the second half, he pulled the strings from deep areas as Barcelona patiently killed off the match.

Left Midfielder- Phillippe Coutinho- 7/10

Phillippe Coutinho was finally allowed to start just behind Barcelona’s lethal attack of Dembele, Suarez and Messi. The Brazilian stepped up with a good performance and came close to getting the goals for the Catalans. He was awarded the formality’s assist for making the final pass to Ousmane Dembele as the Frenchman wriggled past a few to score a stunner. Coutinho was superb in midfield on an overall view and completed 94% of his attempted passes, 2 of which were brilliant long balls.

Right Midfielder- Ivan Rakitic- 7/10

Ivan Rakitic seems to be antonymous with a rest and was forced to put in a difficult shift against PSV Eindhoven in Barcelona’s opening fixture of the Champions League. The Croatian was functional in the centre of the park and contributed quite well towards the attack. He also made sure to fulfil his defensive duties and was seen all over the pitch in attempts to either supply or recover the ball. He has been putting good displays for Barcelona but surely deserves a rest to keep any future fitness issues at bay.

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