Barcelona: Franck Kessié's time to shine

Barcelona beat Sevilla 3-0 last Sunday on LaLiga matchday 20. The result consolidates their position at the top of the table. The Catalan club (53 pts) are now 8 points clear of second-placed Real Madrid (45 pts).

While things are going well for the Blaugrana in the standings, they will have to manage without captain Sergio Busquets in the coming weeks. The Spanish midfielder " sprained the lateral ligament in his left ankle ", explained manager Xavi at the end of the game.

But it is no cause for alarm, as the Catalans can count on Franck Kessié to cover for his absence. Brought on by Xavi after Busquets went off, the Ivory Coast international played his part perfectly in Barcelona's midfield. As solid as ever defensively, he seems to have improved going forward. The former Milan player was not shy about getting into the opposition box to give his side an extra man in attack.

Repeating the performance against Villarreal

His timing and vision also helped Barcelona open the scoring against the Andalusians. He set up Jordi Alba superbly, and the full-back only had to finish (1-0, 58th minute). It won Kessié some credit in Xavi's eyes. " We always say that players must be ready when they are needed. Today, Alba and Kessié stepped up ", said the Spanish coach after the match.

Kessié now has to confirm that fine display against Youssef En-Nesyri's side. Barcelona travel to Villarreal next Sunday. It is another chance for the Ivorian to make himself indispensable. His moment to play has arrived.