LaLiga 2017/2018 Team of the Week: Morales, Messi and Maxi shine on opening weekend

Central defenders: Javier Mascherano (Barcelona) and Nacho (Real Madrid)

Mascherano was on an even, stable keel against Real Betis this Sunday

Due to an injury to Gerard Pique in the Spanish Super Cup, Javier Mascherano was once again flung into the heart of Barcelona's defence in an attempt to patch up the void. In the second leg against Real Madrid, despite the result, the Argentine was uncompromising in his approach, and maintained that same attitude against Real Betis on Sunday.

A last-ditch sliding tackle from the experienced utility man ensured that Sergio Leon didn't have the chance to tuck away a one-on-one opportunity when the scoreline stood at 1-0, and he conducted himself in a no-nonsense manner, stepping out when necessary to impart his tough form of justice on the game.

Zinedine Zidane's rotation policy did not deem it necessary to risk Raphael Varane for the weekend, with Nacho stepping into the back four alongside Sergio Ramos. The Spaniard used his pace well to cover in behind both his captain and Dani Carvajal, earmarking himself as another vital piece of the puzzle for Los Blancos.

He may not be a regular starter, but Sunday evening was just another example of what an important rotation option Nacho can be. He did not put a foot wrong throughout the 90 minutes, and appears to be a much more intelligent operator than the hot-headed presence he found himself playing alongside in their 3-0 win against Deportivo.