Luis Enrique: The derby is a different game

Luis Enrique: The derby is a different game

The Asturian coach spoke about Espanyol's defensive solidity and their excellent form ahead of Sunday's Barcelona derby at the Camp Nou

FC Barcelona face Espanyol at 8.45pm CET on Sunday at the Camp Nou in the sixteenth Liga fixture of the season. The blaugranas come into this match following a comprehensive victory against Osasuna in the league and Luis Enrique has emphasised the challenge that awaits his team: “Derby matches are different games and they are hugely important.”

Below you will find a selection of quotes from the press conference Luis Enrique gave today ahead of Sunday's crucial game:

  • “The derby is a very important game for all Barça fans, it is a different game.”
  • “Both teams are on a positive run. Espanyol are a solid team and they are hard to score against, we will have to be wary of their counterattacks. It will be an intense game and we also hope it will be a good one.”
  • “We haven't looked at previous encounters from other seasons as they have different players and a new coach. We have looked at their last few games from the current campaign.”
  • “To see how far Espanyol have come we will need to wait until after this game. They are solid at the back and they defend as a team. They sit back and don't leave many spaces or give you many chances. Also, they break with speed thanks to the quick and skillful players they have up front.”
  • Suárez's contract extension? Every time someone commits to the club it is important and it strengthens the club and the players.”
  • “I am in favour of doing everything we can to help the referee. Football is evolving towards that and we need to look into which areas we can give the referees extra help. I am in favour of everything which will help them do their job. We don't always have to blame the referees.”
  • “In all cities there are important derby games. It is a fantastic match to play in due to the intensity in the build up and the reaction but also due to what happens out there on the pitch. They are great to play in and even better to win.”
  • “I hope that we focus on the football and it is important to know how to control your emotions and be sporting throughout.”
  • “It is very important to win this game as it is the only way we can put pressure on the league leader.”
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