Messi rested as win over Alaves edges Barca closer to the title

Barcelona will win La Liga on Wednesday if Atletico Madrid lose to Valencia after a 2-0 victory over Alaves gave them a 12-point lead at the top of the table.

Lionel Messi started on the bench at Mendizorrotza on Tuesday in a move that made clear just how comfortable Barca are in this title race, its conclusion surely now only a matter of when rather than if.

Should Atletico avoid defeat to Valencia at the Wanda Metropolitano, the Catalans will still be crowned champions on Saturday at the Camp Nou with a victory over Levante.

They could even have it wrapped up before kick-off on Saturday if Atletico fail to take at least four points from Valencia and Real Valladolid, the latter whom they face a few hours earlier on Saturday.

"It's an incredibly valuable win," coach Ernesto Valverde said.

"In the end however much as people say the league is won, it has to be achieved on the field.

"We are at the gates now, needing three points more with four games ahead. It is an immense joy to be in this position after so many months of work."
"Leo has a lot of individual challenges ahead but today it was time to rest."
- Consistent Suarez -
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