Messi and the Umtiti crisis: Barcelona press review
Mundo Deportivo ensured that the Argentine forward took centre stage while Sport turned their attention to Barça's 'defensive revolution'.
The Catalan press headlined their front pages without taking specific or excessive aim at Zinedine Zidane's first loss since returning to the Real Madrid hotseat. Instead they concentrated on the continued genius of Lionel Messi and the potential area of concern for Ernesto Valverde.
Umtiti not convincing for Barça
Samuel Umtiti was the focus of attention for Sport's cover following his impact in the incredible 4-4 draw in Villarreal. "The performance of the Frenchman is worrying," read the paper, highlighting the "revolution in defence" that will see Murillo and Vermaelen leaving the club, and that Todibo may end up on loan. They make it abundantly clear that Lenglet and Piqué are essential to the Barça backline, while De Ligt arrives as the great hope.
"Oh!" That is the word that Mundo Deportivo uses to express their admiration for the effectiveness that Lionel Messi is showing from dead-ball situations. As opposing teams have attempted to stop the mercurial number 10 during open play, they have also tried using various tactics to prevent him getting the ball in from free-kicks. Next up, Simeone's dogged Atlético and one of the world's best stoppers, Jan Oblak, at the Camp Nou.