'We need to create a new squad which will be a long process'

With all his virtues and shortcomings, he usually speaks with clarity. The Spanish coach did not hesitate to answer questions put to him about the slightly odd group that he has chosen to contest the first matches of the Euro 2020 qualifiers.

"I have chosen the 23 players who are the best for these matches. I would love to have a permanent line-up and squad of 23, but this is a long process", the ex Barca man explained.

Enrique did not dodge the question when Spain's recent form in European competition came up, saying "we have not been where we want and now we are looking for a generational change or whatever you want to call it".

When asked whether the current changes are sufficient replacements for former legends, his response was "it's a bit of everything. I see people who have put out great performances who could earn a place in the squad selection and I have chosen the 23 players who I believe are the best".

He has also monitored the attitude of the new additions to his squad: "This group has no more hunger than another. I have seen the same hunger since the first group of players. The same ambition and the same professionalism. This message which can be sent to the fans is that the players who are here, because they have to be here".

Furthermore, he knows that the time for experiments has passed. "There is now no time for tests or to try things out. The matches have started and we have to get results, but I will continue trialling players".

The goalkeepers remain the same

He spoke equally of his goalkeepers, the only section of the squad not to change: "I have full confidence in my three goalkeepers. Time will tell if I am right or if I am wrong, but they are the same ones as those who were there when I took charge".

The coach took full advantage of the confirmation that Marco Asensio "is available".

With regard to Spain's first rival in the competition, Luis Enrique gave his analysis. "Norway have a great physical level, greater than ours, for sure. They incorporate their wingers and two good forwards. We are going to try to minimise their advantages by being aware and keeping possession".

When questioned on whether he would change his formation, it didn't seem as though that was his intention. "To start with I am going to continue playing with a 4-3-3 formation, but we are open to change", he said, while confirming the option of using Parejo: "He is a pivot, but he can play inside easily. He is one of the options".

His legacy

On a few occasions, titles won in the past were referred to, to which Luis Enrique took the opportunity to talk about himself.

"The last title that Spain won was three championships ago. I can only speak about my project. The first phase of qualifying for a big tournament starts this Saturday. Now we are trying to win another set of titles because it will be fantastic to return to winning ways".