Andrés Iniesta: Leo Messi is unique

FC Barcelona sailed to a 7-0 win over Celtic on Tuesday night to start their Champions League campaign in style at the Camp Nou.

It was an immense display from the home team, who earned the club its biggest ever win in the competition. The front three were all on the scoresheet, but so was captain Andres Iniesta, who hit a sweet volley in the second half. Iniesta spoke to the press about the game, including a mention for a “unique’ teammate, as did a number of Barça players. Here is the pick of what they said:

Andres Iniesta

“Leo Messi is unique,” said the captain, before adding: “We were very effective; we created many chances and limited our opponent’s options.” He concluded by saying that “together, we will fight for everything”.

Luis Suárez

“With the international break and the Olympic Games, we were not able to play together,” said the Uruguayan about himself, Messi and Neymar being reunited after three months.

“Today we had the chance to start together and to help the team to three points. Last year we scored many goals but the important thing is for them to go towards titles.”

Ter Stegen

“To save a penalty is sometimes to do with luck, but also preparation."

"The fans always support me, which was a big motivation for me to save the penalty."

Rakitic

"We all know the quality of the trident. They always turn up when we need them."

"We are always motivated to play. We play each match with the same enthusiasm. Maybe today with a little more than usual, but Barça always play to win.”

André Gomes

"I think we played a great game. We had to react after the league game and I think we did it well.”

“We always try to start games well. A great competition started today, and one that we want to win. We want to show that we are here to win it, and we did that today.”

Jordi Alba

"The team competed very well. From the first half we knew what we wanted to do and we competed well. Aside from just the result, we played very well and we must continue in the same way.”

Umtiti

“For me, Messi is the best player in the world and he showed that today. Those who know about football know he is the best.”

“We must continue this way. The team did great, both in attack and in defence.”