Lionel Messi scored again but was helpless to prevent Barcelona conceding three goals in seven minutes as Levante stormed to a surprise 3-1 victory in La Liga.
Messi converted a first-half penalty at the City of Valencia Stadium for his sixth goal in five games only for Levante to stun the defending champions with an incredible treble shortly after the hour on Saturday.
"Everything unravelled," said Barcelona coach Ernesto Valverde.
"We didn't start the second half well, we weren't creating chances and although they weren't either they suddenly scored two goals. The third one hurt us a lot."
"You have to have an answer."
After any Barcelona defeat, Valverde's future is a topic for discussion. Asked if he was surprised by his players or might consider resignation, he said: "No, to both questions."
- Seven-minute blitz floors Barca -
===================================
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