FC Barcelona travel to Galicia to take on Celta Vigo, hoping to retain their 100% record at the expense of 9-game unbeaten run of their opponents. Luis Enrique expects a tough game against his former side who are flying high in the table after collecting 10 points in their opening 4 games – same points as second place Real Madrid.
It was Celta Vigo where Luis Enrique’s journey back to Nou Camp began as the current Barca manager helped the Galician side finish in the top 10 in the La Liga for the first time since mid 00s.
Celta were in little mood for being gracious, though, having beaten Enrique’s Barcelona 1-0 at Camp Nou last season.
Enrique expecting a tough game
The form of his former side coupled with the fact that they beat them at Nou Camp last season makes them a dangerous opponent. Their front three consisting of former Barcelona B forward Nolito, former Liverpool FC forward Iago Aspas and Chilean FabiA?n Orellana has bagged 7 goals and 3 assists in 4 La Liga outings.
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Nolito, whose back-heel assist won Celta the game at Camp Nou has been the chief destroyer of Celta’s opponent, knocking in 4 goals and 1 assist in 4 games.
Expecting a tough tie, manager Luis Enrique was quoted saying by the official FC Barcelona website: a I expect a really difficult game given the characteristics of our opponents and their current form. All in all it will be an attractive and interesting game for us.a
He added: a It will be as difficult as they come. For example, last season it was really difficult for us. This year they have made some good signings and they are not just getting results, they are doing it playing attractive football.a
a They are games that you know, given the way they put you under pressure, are uncomfortable. The result will depend on our level. If we play as we can we will have a chance. If not, then no.a
a Berizzo can take all the credit. At the end of last season they were playing really well and this season they are one of the best teams in the league.a
Enrique happy with the team, Pique return
Having served the 4-game ban for the Red card in the Spanish Super Copa, Gerard Pique is once again available.
Expressing relief at the return of his star defender from last season Enrique said: a He has been out due to a mistake that he committed. Getting players back after suspension and injury is always good news.a
“With injuries and such, it is a normal, understandable situation. It is not catastrophic, there has always been a good atmosphere in the dressing room, ita s easy for the coach.a
a Everybody knows how we play, our style. I am happy with the teama s form and with the results.a