Real Valladolid

Real Madrid have closed the gap on Atlético to just three points - just a week ago such a situation was unimaginable, writes Alfredo Relaño.

Leo Messi sitting in the stands added to his disciples' insistence he is indispensable and his detractors asking if he has lost interest at Barcelona.

Atlético Madrid secured their place at the top of LaLiga with a sound performance in Anoeta, while Koeman saw his main man find a new young partner.

Alfredo Relaño takes a look at Saturday's action in LaLiga, which saw Real Madrid beat Sevilla, Atlético Madrid triumph over Valladolid and Cádiz beat Barça

Real Madrid are still playing like a team in pre-season.