'Great win against a great opponent' says Luis Enrique

Luis Enrique spoke to the press following “a great win against a great opponent” in the second leg of the Spanish Super Cup on Wednesday night.

“It was especially pleasing that we didn’t concede any goals, and that was because the players competed with such intensity” continued the Barça manager. “But it was a fair result. Now we need to focus on Saturday’s game, where we’ll be starting the league as champions and seeking to retain our title.”

He accepted that the injury to Javier Mascherano does complicate matters somewhat, and also mentioned that “I’m really happy with Arda Turan’s performance. It’s really good to know that he can also play up front”.

When asked about the players he left out of his starting line-up, the Asturian replied that “to get through such a long season you need all your players, not just eleven. They all have to be involved and meet the high demands that we make of them in order to achieve our targets.”

Third in titles

This latest trophy makes Luis Enrique the third most successful manager in FC Barcelona history. His eight titles have only been bettered by Johan Cruyff and Pep Guardiola.

“I feel very fortunate” he commented. “But it’s all thanks to the great players I have. They never cease to surprise me in every game and every training session. They’re unique, they’re different.”