Ivan Rakitic plays down praise after Barcelona ease to win in first La Liga game

Barcelona midfielder Ivan Rakitic has talked up the qualities of his teammates after he helped his side to a comfortable 3-0 victory over Elche in their opening La Liga fixture.

Barca's new signing was in impressive form on his league debut and played a part in his side's second goal.

"My role is to work and give the best of myself to get the team wins and titles. But playing with the best players in the world makes everything easier," said Rakitic, according to Goal.com.

"It was not an easy match, though. The first game is always difficult and even more so if you have to play the entire second half with 10.

"But we have confidence in our football and, despite the difficulties, it finally paid off for us. Today has been very good."

Barca new boy Munir El Haddadi also featured in the game and marked his debut with a goal.