Ernesto Valverde: 'I'm anxious to make my debut'

HARRISON, NEW JERSEY — First-year manager Ernesto Valverde and midfielder Sergio Busquets appeared before the media Friday at Red Bull Arena. Here are the highlights of what they had to say.

Ernesto Valverde

On his debut:

“I’m taking it in stride, and I’m excited.”

“I really want to see my team in competition, even if it is not official.”

On his plans for the game:

“We’ll dole out minutes to the players. Certainly, not all 23 who are here will be able to play. We’ll make a lot of substitutions at the half so everyone can get in shape and after that we’ll increase the workload.”

On the Neymar rumors:

“We’re counting on him and he’s counting on us.”

Sergio Busquets

On the matchups on this summer’s tour:

“It’s better to be tested against top teams, like Juventus.”

On opening his 10th season with the team:

“It’s a privilege to be here in the United States taking part in such a high-level tournament.”

On the Neymar rumors:

“He’s better off here than any place else.”