Luis Enrique on Messi: "The club is above any player"

Spain boss Luis Enrique talked to the media prior to the Nations League clash against Ukraine. That is Spain's second game of the tournament after the 1-1 draw with Germany. 

Luis Enrique was asked about Lionel Messi, who has recently said he will stay at Barcelona and he was not shy to give his opinion. 

"It's a very delicate topic. A general reflexion would be that I think the club is always above any person. Barcelona, founded in 1899 is one of the best in the world, which has always won titles. It's obvious there has been a great relationship. Leo has made Barca grow exponentially, but I and many others would have liked there to be an agreement," Luis Enrique said. 

"Sooner or later Messi will stop playing for Barca and it would have been good for it to have all been more friendly. The club will keep on winning titles without Messi and Messi will continue being fantastic for many years if he leaves," he said. 

Ansu Fati compared to Messi: "You can't compare him with Messi, but he has surprised me. Not his performances as a footballer which is why I've called him up, but because of his calmness, maturity and that at 17 he's playing for the senior side. He's a different player and when you see him with that attention, dedication and happiness, it's wonderful. He makes it really easy for me."

Busquets: "He like he was when he was young. Very mature. He doesn't need to talk a lot. He imposes respect just with his presence. He's reliable as a player and a professional. Obviously he plays better in some games than in others, like everyone, but he's here because for me he's one of the most important players for the national team. Like he always has been."

 

September 5, 2020