Luis Enrique attempted to put a week of discord behind him by claiming that he still has the support of his players ahead of today’s crucial encounter with Atletico Madrid at the Nou Camp.
The two sides are level on points and four behind leaders Real Madrid, who will also have a game in hand after tonight’s match.
In that context, defeat would be extremely costly for the losers’ title challenge and Enrique’s task in preparing for the game has not been helped by reports of a major bust-up between the manager and his star player Lionel Messi.
Some rumours – hastily denied by the club – even claimed that a furious Messi has spoken with club president Josep Maria Bartomeu to demand Enrique’s dismissal.
“The day that I feel my players aren’t behind me will be the day that I leave,” Enrique said. “But that is not something I have ever felt the need to do at any stage of my career.”
He maintained his position, however, of refusing to elaborate on the nature of his disagreement with Messi, adding: “There are so many malicious comments going around, if I confirmed or denied one of them, I’d have to do the same thing for them all. That’s not my game. It’s a dangerous game and I don’t intend to play it.”
At the end of such a turbulent week – which saw the departure of sporting director Andoni Zubizarreta and Carles Puyol – it could easily be thought that a visit from the in-form league champions is the last thing Barca need, but Enrique claimed to be pleased that such a high-profile fixture has arrived.
He said: “I feel stronger and more optimistic every day. It must be that I like the fuss and the noise.” Enrique was aso emphatic in his belief that Atletico are in serious contention to retain the La Liga crown they won last season.
“Last year Diego Simeone was saying his team were not real title contenders,” he added. “Now he’s saying the same thing again, but this time we’re not falling for it.”
Barca are likely to be without midfielder Xavi, who missed the midweek cup win over Elche with a calf injury and did not train fully yesterday. Irrespective of Enrique’s team selection, however, there is no doubt that eyes will be on both him and Messi.
