Luis Enrique: We come into this final in good shape

The start of the season is almost upon us with the Spanish Super Cup first leg against Sevilla taking place on Sunday, and Luis Enrique is prepared for the challenges ahead.

The manager, starting his third season in the dugout at FC Barcelona, spoke to the media on Saturday where he declared his happiness with the team’s progression in pre-season and the state of the squad going into the new campaign.

“After giving the necessary time off to our players, and by not taking long-distance travels in order to facilitate their recuperation, we enter the final in good condition and in optimum circumstances,” said Luis Enrique.

“What I like the most is the attitude of my players,” the manager added. “This is what makes us win titles. There are evidently things to improve in all aspects, but we are working on them.”

Changes at Sevilla, but same danger

“Even though the team is going through an adaptation period, we will see a strong Sevilla and an attractive game”

“I like Sampaoli’s philosophy, it is attractive for the spectator, and he makes his teams extremely tough for the opponent. This makes Sevilla very dangerous, something which they have continuously been for years as a reference in La Liga.”

Individual mentions

“I know Samper perfectly well. We are entering the final stage of pre-season and we will have to weigh up the situation for what is best for him.”

“Arda Turan can play in the middle or on the wing. He is a player that I like in both positions and adapts to what we ask for in various stages of games. And he can also do say at a very good level.

“For, watching Messi play football is good news, whichever the shirt he wears.”

“After seeing how Umtiti and Andre Gomes have arrived, and seeing how they have trained, they are ready to play.”