Barcelona are flying. A commanding 5-0 victory over Valencia at Mestalla, reported by GOAL, moved Hansi Flick's side three points clear at the top of LaLiga after four matches, with 12 points from a perfect record. Lamine Yamal scored twice and Raphinha equalled a long-standing Lionel Messi goalscoring record, underlining just how much momentum the reigning champions are carrying into the new season. Real Madrid's shock defeat to Real Betis on Friday made the win even more significant in the context of the title race.

The result was built on a broader sense of stability and identity taking shape at the club. Summer signing Anthony Gordon, who joined from Newcastle for £70 million, has settled quickly and featured in the starting lineup, as GOAL reports. Off the pitch, Raphinha has been confirmed as the first Brazilian captain in Barcelona's history, as GOAL confirmed, while Lamine Yamal has also been included in the new five-man leadership group, a remarkable step for a 19-year-old.

There are still concerns. Yamal missed a training session ahead of the Valencia trip, raising injury fears, though his two-goal performance put those worries to rest for now. Barcelona's attention turns next to European competition, with Feyenoord visiting Spotify Camp Nou in the Champions League on September 9, a match that offers the club a chance to confirm their strong early-season form on the continental stage.