Lionel Messi announced his comeback to goalscoring form with a four-goal show against Eibar at the Camp Nou. Brazilian midfielder Author Melo converted late on as Barcelona hit Eibar for five to go top of the La Liga table, at least momentarily.
With no goals in almost two months, questions were being asked of the Record World Player of the year winner, especially with the Champions League back.
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Messi however silenced critics with a first-half hat-trick in what was one his most ruthless displays yet. A comfortable afternoon for Barcelona is what many fans hoped for following the ongoing wrangles between the board and players.
It only took 14 minutes for the Argentine to get his first after connecting well with an Ivan Rakitic pass. Messi made it two in the 37 minutes combining well with Chile midfielder Arturo Vidal.
Three minutes later, the points and match ball were secured with eyes now firmly on Napoli in the Champions League. Melo got on the scoresheet shortly after Messi got his fourth to put a gloss on the victory.
The wins take Barcelona above Real Madrid with 55 points, though the Capital giants face Levante in the late kick-off match.