Luis Enrique says he trusts his Barcelona squad despite seeing his fringe players struggle to a 1-0 Champions League win over modest APOEL.
The Barca boss made nine changes to the side that defeated Athletic Bilbao at the weekend and, speaking to reporters after the game, defended his decision to include a number of youngsters.
“It’s me who makes the decisions and has to manage the squad and I’m convinced we will succeed with the help of each and every player. It worked, but what we need to do is evaluate where we got into difficulties at times,” explained Enrique.
“Players are not machines. They need to be fresh, find answers and work hard. We have to find solutions at a tactical level because players are not perfect and to attack sides that close up at the back is not always good.
“I like [the fact] we scored from a set-piece and I’m happy.”
There was also praise for defensive midfielder Sergi Samper and goalkeeper Marc-Andre Ter Stegen on their full debuts for the first team.
“Samper passed with flying colours. Making your debut isn’t easy and he has showed quality, so I congratulate him.
“He showed great character and I think he only committed one error with a pass. I think he is a great player who is going to help us on this journey.
“As for Ter Stegen, he had little to do but was in the right place at the right time when our rivals threatened,” explained Enrique, before being asked if he had one ‘keeper for La Liga and one for the Champions League.
“I’ve not got one goalkeeper, I have two very good ones,” he countered.
“It is not a position like an outfield player and I’ll continue to manage it as I see fit. I don’t believe in cliché’s and I want all my players ready to compete.
“Twenty-something players is better than having 12 and I trust them completely.”
