Diego Simeone picks out Barcelona star as 'one of the best players in La Liga' as Atletico Madrid prepare for top-of-the-table clash with Hansi Flick's leaders

La Liga leaders Barca host second-placed Atletico on Saturday in a crunch encounter. Ahead of that match, manager Simeone has singled out Raphinha as a top-class talent in the division.

He told Mundo Deportivo: "We’re facing a team that is playing very well, I like the youth they have in the middle of the pitch with kids who play very good football. Raphinha is one of the best players in La Liga – for his bravery and his way of playing.”

Barca are only top of the league by goal difference and Atletico have a game in hand on Hansi Flick's side. The Blaugrana have won just one of their last six games whereas the Madrid outfit have notched 11 victories in a row in all competitions. With Lamine Yamal out injured, Raphinha - who is in the form of his life - will have to be at his best to secure Barca a much-needed victory.

Barca captain Raphinha, who has scored 17 goals and bagged 10 assists in 24 games this season, will lead his side against Atletico at the Olympic Stadium on Saturday night.