Atletico Madrid midfielder Saul Niguez has lavished praise on Lionel Messi after the Argentine decided Sunday night's La Liga clash at the Wanda Metropolitano.

Barcelona were heading for a goalless draw with Atletico before Messi struck an 86th-minute winner for the Spanish champions, combining with Luis Suarez before finding the bottom corner to silence the home supporters.

Despite being on the wrong end of the result, Saul was keen to praise Barca's star player, with the Spain international branding the South American "the best".

"We are frustrated at the end with a defeat, as we played well and created chances to score. But when Messi is on the pitch, he can do that, and with such ease," Saul told Marca. "He is the best.

"[Marc-Andre] Ter Stegen made some important saves for Barcelona, but for me, Messi is the one, and he has shown why he is the best."

The victory moved Ernesto Valverde's side back to the top of the table, leaving Atletico in sixth position with the capital giants only winning six league matches this season.