Barcelona player ratings vs Real Sociedad: Braithwaite excellent, Memphis Depay shines on debut

Defence:

Sergino Dest – 7

Sergino Dest provided threat on the right wing as he thrust forward on several occasions. The USMNT star looked tired in the second half and was taken off for Emerson Royal. Even defensively, he was key in stopping a quick counter from La Real and was sound in most of his passing.

Eric Garcia – 7.5

Eric Garcia had a smooth Barcelona debut and was right in the mix making important interceptions. He dealt with Oryazabal well in most situations and was reliable with his distribution. Garcia will certainly improve with his movement as he understands his new teammates better with time.

Gerard Pique – 8.5

How poetic was it? One of the most loyal players at the club, took a massive pay cut to get the new signings registered and he was the first goalscorer of the new era, assisted by Depay, a player who was registered thanks to Pique. Defensively, he coped well with Oyarzabal and restricted Portu. With Messi gone, Pique becomes more important than ever in the dressing room as well as on the pitch.

Jordi Alba – 7

Jordi Alba came very close to scoring a goal and extending the lead to 3-0. Alba and Messi shared a telepathic relationship but with no Argentine maestro around, Alba now has to form new partnerships. His combination play with Memphis was impressive but the sight of him cutting back from the left to be smashed home by Messi won’t be a sight that will be relived this season and beyond.