Luis Suarez says Lionel Messi has started the new Liga campaign "like a beast" as Barcelona ran out 6-2 winners over Real Betis on Saturday.
Messi endured a difficult summer with Argentina, missing a penalty in the Copa America final defeat before announcing -- and then reversing -- his retirement from the national team.
But he rebounded by scoring twice in Barcelona's first league game of the season and set up Suarez for his second of three goals on the day.
"Leo has started like a beast and is the best player in the world," Suarez said. "All you can do is surrender to his feet and enjoy him."
Suarez also said Barcelona were eager to retain the Spanish title for a third straight season.
"Barcelona is always the favourite and one of the candidates to win the league," he said. "Always there are three or four teams fighting for it. We have to show fight because we are the holders.
"We had to start strong at home, it is always important. Obviously on an individual level I like the satisfaction of being able to help the team, that's what is essential."
Barcelona manager Luis Enrique praised his goal scorers' latest impressive contribution -- Barca recently won the Spanish Supercopa over two legs against Sevilla -- before indicating they could yet add a further signing to their squad.
Samuel Umtiti and Denis Suarez were given their league debuts from the start, while fellow summer recruit Lucas Digne came off the bench.
"The players were very motivated, and very active both in attack and defence," Enrique said. "We were brave and very effective. A complete game.
"Arda has a lot of quality and can perform in the two positions, both as an inside midfielder and as a forward. And, on top of that, he scores goals. We are seeing the real Arda. He is more integrated and happy.
"Sergi Roberto, down the same flank as always, [was] very attentive in the defensive aspect of his game, and showed good anticipation. In attack, he was very good, looking for space and creating chances.
"Being in my third year, there are some things that you just cannot explain to the veterans. And the new players have arrived with a lot of enthusiasm.
"Throughout the season, the level of demand will be at the maximum. We must all be 100 percent.
"Messi was at an extraordinary level, as always. Luis Suarez also, both in attack and defence.
"Any player that can improve the squad, which is not easy, the club will be open to the possibility of bringing him in."