The FC Barcelona head coach speaks to the press ahead of his team’s Copa del Rey opener on Wednesday night at Villanovense
FC Barcelona are ready to defend the Copa del Rey. Head coach Luis Enrique, who earlier Tuesday had announced a 16-man squad list for Wednesday’s last 32 first leg at Villanovense, spoke to the press about the game, which pits his team against a foe from the Second Division.
The aim, he said, is “to use [some Barça B players] and to rest to some others.”
“The season is so long that we have to prepare for them,” he said. “You have to overcome obstacles all throughout the season.”
Here are the highlights of what Luis Enrique had to say regarding several topics.
On the Copa del Rey:
“We are limited in the number of Barça B players that we can use. I would like more players to rest, but that’s what the rule is and it has to be followed.”
“Kaptoum is a quality inside player, who plays Barça’s style and has good ball handling. Aitor can play on both sides.”
“The cup format already changed a bit; to lighten the schedule I’d like to see a single game in all the knockout rounds.”
On the Mascherano case:
“I talked to him. I see an improvement in the behaviour of my players. The sanction will be what it is.”
On Iniesta’s shape:
“We’re not going to take any risks, whether with Andrés or any other player. It depends on the player and how he feels. The day he tells us he’s better, he’ll play.”
On Messi not playing with Argentina:
“What interests Tata Martino, and me, and the AFA, and Barça, is Messi’s welfare.”