Lionel Messi Not Angry at Luis Enrique over Benching, Neymar Hails Barcelona Ace

Andres Iniesta insisted Lionel Messi was not angry with Luis Enrique over the Barcelona manager's decision to start his star player on the bench for the 2-1 away win over Atletico Madrid in La Liga.

Messi stepped off the substitutes' bench to fire the decisive goal for last season's treble winners. Iniesta explained how Messi didn't resent being a spectator at the start, according to the English arm of Spanish newspaper Sport:

"Leo is a unique player who can make the difference, which he did once again today. I am really happy for him and for the team. It's normal [to be on the bench] after so much travelling [with Argentina] and all that's happened over the last few days [the birth of his second son]."

For his part, Enrique stressed that he'd talked his selection decision through with Messi prior to the game. The Barca chief made it clear he was concerned about protecting the player, per another article from Sport: "I talked with Leo [before the game]. He's important for us, so we didn't want to take any risks. He has been travelling a lot."

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Enrique's intent was admirable. But as good as Barca are, the star-studded squad still needs its pocket-edition talisman. That's especially true in a game as demanding as Atletico away.

The stubborn hosts had taken the lead through Fernando Torres. His rare strike was soon answered by Neymar. levelling things from a free-kick.

Just like Iniesta, the Brazilian forward was quick to laud Messi's influence on the outcome, during an interview with Movistar+ (h/t Marca): "Everything is better with him on the pitch. We got a quick equaliser which was very important. Messi then came on and he always makes the difference."

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This was a huge three points for Messi and Co. Although Enrique's men haven't quite clicked this season, they've still managed to claw their way to top spot in La Liga.

Atletico looked a viable contender for Barca's title, especially after adding forwards Jackson Martinez and Luciano Vietto alongside the brilliant Antoine Griezmann. Madrid's title credentials seemed to be confirmed when they won 3-0 in Sevilla prior to hosting Barcelona.

But as long as Barca can call on Messi, they're still the team to beat, both in La Liga and Europe.