Atlético fought as far as they could in LaLiga but it was written in the stars that Barça would reclaim the title - in large part, due to Leo Messi.

AS Editor Alfredo Relaño analyses a hard-fought Madrid derby, and the effect Leo Messi had on the Barcelona - Athletic match, after starting on the bench.

These two fixtures will serve as fitting curtain raisers before Wednesday night's UEFA Super Cup clash.