Argentine forward Lionel Messi inspired Barcelona to a sensational 3-1 win over champions Atletico Madrid and help his side remain a point adrift of La Liga leaders Real Madrid.
Messi ended all speculations of a move to Chelsea, Manchester City or Manchester United as he combined with Neymar and Luis Suarez to help ease pressure on boss Luis Enrique, while playing more or less as a conventional right-winger.
Barca took the lead when Suarez and Messi combined for Neymar to convert from close range. The Argentine then played Suarez in to double the lead before adding a late third himself, the BBC reported.
The only goal from Atletico came after Mario Mandzukic scored from the penalty spot after Messi fouled Jesus Gamez. However, despite an improved second-half display and the introduction of Fernando Torres, Atletico were limited
Messi was in the right frame of mind to break the shackles of Atletico's magnificent defence, and ended all speculation about his commitment to Barca.
Messi played on as a right winger but drifted more regularly into a central position to score his own late goal, exchanging passes with Ivan Rakitic and reacting quickest to a deflection to stab home.
More From This Section
Messi was involved in everything for Barca on Sunday, creating the opener before laying on another chance for Jordi Alba, started the move which led to a great headed opportunity for Neymar, had a narrow-angled shot blocked, teed up the second goal for Suarez and sent a glancing header narrowly wide.
Although Neymar also produced some dazzling moments, Suarez worked devilishly hard and Rakitic dominated the midfield, Messi was without any doubt the key man.
The Argentina skipper got the loudest ovation when the teams were announced and a euphoric response to his goal, which made it clear that he is the undisputed King of the Nou Camp, the report added.
