The Barça coach says players missing ‘will not change our approach’ and that his side still have the same goals for the campaign
The Asturan says he will wait until Sunday to decide if Dani Alves is fit enough to face Levante
Luis Enrique is still confident about his Barça side. Despite the injuries his squad has suffered in recent weeks, the most recent concerning the long term absence of Rafinha, the coach believes “we have enough depth” in the squad to continue their good run of form. “It won’t change our approach nor what we want to do during the season. We can pick up players from the B squad so we have that guarantee,” explained the blaugrana coach.
He highlighted the “good news” which is the imminent return of Dani Alves. “He is feeling fine, on Sunday we will decide whether he can play or not against Levante,” added the Asturian coach.
Below other highlights from the pre-game press conference:
On Levante
“I am expecting a Levante with the same attitude that I have seen them with in the first few games of the season. They will be ready to make like difficult for us, getting players behind the ball.”
“It is always difficult to attack a team that has players sat back in defence.”
Rafinha’s injury
“It’s really sad for the player. You wouldn’t wish an injury like this on anyone, not least one of our players.”
“I didn’t see any ill intent in Nainggolan’s injury.”
“What we have is a squad that has to overcome problems and negative situations during the season.”
“We have players from the B squad, like Gumbau, who is an interesting player we have brought in.”
“We have the blind faith in that we will get to the end of the season with chances [to win trophies]”
On the chances of being able to bring in a player to replace Rafinha
“Up until now we have not had much luck in those things. I am not confident. I think a request was made but FIFA said clearly no.”
“I am counting on not being able to bring in the players we have signed until January.”
The team’s situation
“We have scored less goals than other seasons? That doesn’t worry me at all. In terms of points we are doing well.”
“In the league it is no good being strong just for a part of the season.”