Barcelona sit clear at the top of LaLiga with 21 points from seven games, and the story of this early-season run is increasingly being written by one man. Raphinha scored a hat-trick in the 3-1 victory at Sevilla, taking his tally to 14 goals across all competitions this season. The timing carried extra weight: Barcelona confirmed his contract renewal on the same night, as reported by Goal, removing any lingering uncertainty about the captain's long-term future at the club.

Hansi Flick was candid after the win, admitting to Goal that Barcelona were far from their best in Seville. That honesty matters. A team capable of grinding out three points on a difficult night, without playing well, is one with genuine title credentials. Flick also revealed, per Goal, that managing his squad depth is the hardest part of his job, a sign of how much competition exists within the group.

The squad picture also shifted in Seville. Goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic made his debut after Joan Garcia picked up a knee problem, with Goal reporting that Dani Olmo played a key role in helping him settle. Barcelona also confirmed contract extensions for Marc Bernal and Xavi Espart alongside Raphinha's renewal, according to Goal, pointing to a club actively securing its core.

Next up is Getafe at home on October 10, where Flick will look to extend a run that already has Barcelona's rivals watching closely.