As the Spanish league takes a break this week to accommodate the many international friendlies, the league table had quite a bit of movement, and even a new league leader.

As four-time Ballon D’Or winner Leo Messi returned to practice for Barcelona this week, the Catalan side was able to climb into sole possession of first place. Barça shut out fifth-place Villarreal 3-0, with Neymar continuing his hot streak. The Brazilian netted two goals, including a candidate for goal of the year.

Barcelona now has the upper hand heading to Madrid for El Clásico once league play starts up again next week. Although Messi has returned to practice, the risk of reinjury has been elevated, according to Marca. Therefore the Argentinean star’s status for the match is doubtful.

Real Madrid failed to keep pace with their bitter rivals, falling 3-2 in Sevilla. Sevilla are always capable of taking down big clubs, especially in the Sánchez Pizjuan. Coming off a tough Champions League defeat to Manchester City, dealing Real Madrid their first loss under Rafa Benitez.

Sevilla beat Barcelona earlier this year in Sevilla, proving that they are not a side to be taken lightly, even though they sit in tenth place.

Madrid was without goalkeeper Keylor Navas for the second straight match, and played without stud left-back Marcelo. The Brazilian international came away injured after Madrid’s Champions League match against Paris Saint-Germain.

They key now ahead of El Clásico for both sides is to remain healthy. Every year there is an international break where one big club comes away disappointed, as multiple stars sustain injuries while on international duty.

Real Madrid seem to have more issues to solve in attack than Barcelona. Neymar and Luis Suarez are playing beautifully in tandem without Messi, not skipping a beat. Meanwhile Ronaldo’s numbers are down, and Gareth Bale just returned from a calf injury. Forward Karim Benzema, in the midst of a scandal in France, still is out due to injury.

El Clásico between Real Madrid and Barcelona will take place November 21 at 9:15 a.m. PST.

Photo: Flickr/Dan Farrimond