AFP

Messi on bench as Barca look to clinch Spanish title

Barcelona (AFP) – Lionel Messi was named among the substitutes for Saturday’s game at home to Levante with Barcelona needing a win to secure an eighth Spanish league title in 11 seasons.

Coach Ernesto Valverde opted for a front three of Luis Suarez, Ousmane Dembele and Philippe Coutinho as Messi was rested ahead of Wednesday’s Champions League semi-final, first leg against Liverpool.

Messi is the leading scorer in La Liga this season with 33 goals in 31 appearances.

Defensive midfielder Sergio Busquets was also left on the bench as Barca looked to wrap up the title with three matches to spare.

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