FC Barcelona manager Luis Enrique expects maximum intensity

It’s been just over a month since the last time FC Barcelona faced a home league match coming on the heels of an international break. That’s when Barça fell, 2–1, to Alavés back on 10 September. This time, however, manager Luis Enrique Martínez hopes the result will be different.

“They’ve had two weeks to get ready for this game,” he said at Friday’s pre-game press conference. “Our last two home matches against them plus the fact that we’re restarting competition are also aspects that could have a bearing on the game.”

The Asturias native knows Deportivo are no pushhovers at Camp Nou.

“We have to be alert,” he said.

Other notable phrases from the FCB manager.

“This game is different because the team has been split up for several days.”

“It’s going to be a game of maximum intensity.”

“We need the support of the fans.”

“We have to make up some points [in the league table], and that’s why we’re not thinking beyond tomorrow.”

“I think all of my players are ready and could start.”

About the return of Leo Messi and Samuel Umtiti:

“They’ve trained well with the squad and we’ll see tomorrow what we do with them.”

“In principle, they’re both available.”