Arthur gives a passing masterclass in the style of Xavi

It is not new for Arthur to be going strong at Barcelona, as the Brazilian has improved every day since Ernesto Valverde selected him. At the Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on Tuesday he offered an extraordinary showing, completing 96 percent of his passes, the best of the team, beating both Sergio Busquets and Ivan Rakitic, and his style of play has seen him compared to Xavi.

Xavi himself admitted it a few days ago and Arthur was almost perfect at taking the ball, protecting it and passing it on quickly, but he showed much more than that. He helped defensively with his pressing and he looked for that decisive pass to break through the lines on a couple of occasions. The arrival of the Brazilian is an invaluable aid for Barcelona's midfield after the loss of Andres Iniesta last summer.

Arthur is a perfect complement for Rakitic and Busquets and he gives balance to the side, but it is a pity that he almost never finishes a game and is one of the fixed changes.

Did Valverde do well not selecting Lionel Messi?

It was an intelligent decision and there was no need to take a risk with Messi. The team arrived in Milan with nine points and very close to qualification and it would not have been worthwhile to take a chance with the captain. There was much to lose and little to gain, something with which the coach agreed. So Messi watched on from the stands. Next Sunday, against Real Betis, he could return to the pitch.

The moment for Barcelona's signings

Barcelona's four summer signings featured at the Stadio Giuseppe Meazza, and this is still newsworthy. Malcom debuted as a goalscorer when he had been questioned, Arthur delivered a lesson in passing, Clement Lenglet is still strong in the defence and Ousmane Dembele had some promising actions.

Does the Champions League transform Barcelona?

Just look at the results - three wins, one draw and qualified for the next round. However, there are more than just numbers and the team has shown a commendable attitude, as nobody hides and they play with another speed. Europe is another story.