Ranking Barcelona's Top 5 Players for October
Barcelona haven't exactly enjoyed a vintage October as of the 29th, but neither have they performed terribly.
One must take into account the run of injuries, FIFA-imposed transfer ban and lack of squad depth before passing judgment.
The fact remains that, despite not setting the world alight, the Catalans are still in touch with the Primera Division leaders and are also in the box seat for qualification in the Champions League.
Whether games are won by four, five or one goal, the outcome is the same: three points.
If Barca can still be challenging while supposedly not playing to their maximum, then that only bodes well for the remainder of the campaign.
Let's take a look at who has impressed the most over the course of October to date.
No. 5: Claudio Bravo
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Although clean sheets have been a rarity, Claudio Bravo's return has brought an element of stability to Barca's defence—a calm authority who gives defenders the confidence to play their natural games, knowing there is always an outlet.
His distribution with the ball has been first class, and his command of the area likewise.
The Chilean showed once again he is the undisputed No. 1 for Barcelona at present.
No. 4: Ivan Rakitic
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Ivan Rakitic cost how much?! At a cost of just £16.1 million, he's surely one of the best buys the club have ever made.
The Croatian has come up with the goods when he's played, never better than the game in which he hit a stunning double against a dogged BATE Borisov side.
His arrowed drive and delicate chip were the equal of anything produced by MSN.
Professional nous of knowing when to time his runs into the box to support the attack is just one area of his game that marks him out as something special.
Delightful.
No. 3: Luis Suarez
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Luis Suarez has continued to benefit from a full pre-season and a lack of international duty.
The Uruguayan striker looks sharp, interested and, at times, deadly.
Perhaps he would have liked a few more goals spread across the fixtures so far in October, but it hasn't been for the want of trying.
Suarez exhibits an outstanding work ethic, has led the line superbly well and is an example to all of his colleagues.
He's a modern take on an old-school No. 9.
No. 2: Sergi Roberto
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Well played, Sergi Roberto. Well played indeed.
The 23-year-old continues to go forward in his career at a time when a lack of an upward trajectory would probably have seen him depart Camp Nou.
Confidence in his natural game is there for all to see, and the opportunity he managed to carve out for himself has definitely been taken.
In this season of so many injuries, Roberto has given Luis Enrique a genuine option in a couple of areas of the pitch and surely secured his long-term future at the club in the process.
No. 1: Neymar
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There can't be any doubt about the identity of Barcelona's best player during October.
With Lionel Messi out of the picture, someone had to step forward and produce the goods, as well as shoulder some responsibility.
Neymar has taken on the baton with some aplomb.
Goals, assists, sharp and incisive interplay: The Brazilian's star continues to rise, and Barca are arguably still in rude health thanks in no small part to his input.
O Rei Ney.
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