PSG vs. Barça: Luis Enrique's press conference in 10 phrases
Luis Enrique is preparing for his first Champions League away day in charge of Barcelona with confidence, calmness and without giving any clues as to who will start against Paris Saint-Germain on Tuesday.
Here are the 10 key phrases from his pre-match press conference on Monday evening:
1. Ibrahimovic's absence: "My plans will not change because he is out. His injury is important, but how we approach the game does not depend on this variable -- PSG are still a dangerous team."
2. Laurent Blanc's PSG: "We'll see if there is a real commitment to attacking [as Blanc said] and if they approach the game this way. Although, as coaches we never give too much away."
3. Rotations in defence: "As soon as we concede our first goal they are going to say the rotations have been a disaster, but I will continue to make them as I consider it right and the best for the team."
4. No clues: "We want to place doubts in our rival's mind, so they don't know what way we will play. The objective is to be better than them and for that we need all of our players."
5. Group stage: "Yes, I prioritise it, but not only the outcome of this match but all the games after as well. Winning in Paris requires motivation, concentration, wisdom, and perhaps other aspects too."
6. Pressure in attack: "Pressue in attack is like the [river] Guadiana, it appears and disappears... I hope it doesn't disappear, the players are not stupid."
7. Neymar-Messi: "The conclusions must be made at the end of the season. For a team to have success, there are many factors... not just the connection between two players."
8. Level in defence: "Success or failure is never due to one line of the team -- to defend well you need all of the team, even the attackers. It's a collective game and to have success you need the whole group."
9. Messi, No. 1: "I continue to be impressed. He is a decisive player for us in terms of scoring, assisting and in other apsects such as pressing or defending. He is the No. 1 in the majority of aspects of play."
10. Extra motivation: "The stage motivates us a lot. To win away from home in the Champions League is very attractive."
