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| Luis Enrique’s press conference ahead of Spanish Super Cup vs Sevilla – Image: FCB |
Luis Enrique and Sergio Busquets both addressed the press ahead of their Spanish Super Cup game against Sevilla on Sunday with the Barça coach discussing numerous issues.
Barça will be aiming to win their first official trophy of the new season tomorrow and Luis Enrique has said his team are fresh and prepared for the encounter with the first leg to be played at the Sanchez Pizjuan on Sunday night.
“After giving the necessary time off to our players, and by not taking long-distance travels in order to facilitate their recuperation, we enter the game in good condition and in optimum circumstances,” said Luis Enrique.
“What I like the most is the attitude of my players. This is what makes us win titles. There are evidently things to improve in all aspects, but we are working on them.”
The coach is aware of the threat Sevilla pose and stated that the Andalusian club are more dangerous with Sampaoli as their new manager.
“Even though the team is going through an adaptation period, we will see a strong Sevilla and an attractive game.”
“I like Sampaoli’s philosophy, it is attractive for the spectators, and he makes his teams extremely tough for the opponent. This makes Sevilla very dangerous, something which they have continuously been for years as a reference in La Liga.”
Lucho also made mention of Lionel Messi after the star decided to rejoin the Argentina national team. He also spoke about Sergi Samper, Arda Turan as well as new signings Samuel Umtiti and Andre Gomes.
“I know Samper perfectly well. We are entering the final stage of pre-season and we will have to weigh up the situation for what is best for him. He will make a good central midfielder.”
“Arda Turan can play in the middle or on the wing. He is a player that I like in both positions and adapts to what we ask for in various stages of games. And he can also do say at a very good level.”
“Watching Messi play football is good news for the game, whichever the shirt he wears. It’s good for news for Argentina.”
“After seeing how Umtiti and Andre Gomes have arrived, and seeing how they have trained, they are ready to play. We have no risks for tomorrow.”
On the decision on who will start in goal, Lucho was coy to reveal his idea and he didn’t want to speak on the recent rumours linking Paco Alcacer to Barça.
“I make my decisions on the players I have and that are available. Based on that I will choose.”
“Paco Alcacer? I don’t want to mention the names of players who are not in the Barça squad. If I comment on one player, you will ask me about more transfers.”
SERGIO BUSQUETS PRESS CONFERENCE
Barcelona third captain Sergio Busquets also spoke to the press and insisted that the team are well groomed for the game. He also spoke on Sergi Samper who looks to be his heir.
“The aim is to continue growing as a team and individually so we can keep on winning.”
“We must be solid. We have conceded goals in recent games, but pre-season is in order to improve.”
“We have signed a few players, I have no doubt that they will adapt because they are players of high quality, but there are a lot of games to come.”
“Sergi Samper? He has lots of qualities and has a lot of potential to improve.”
Barça take on Sevilla in the first leg of the Spanish Super Cup on Sunday night at the Sanchez Pizjuan.
