Marchena: Respect for Barca, not fear

Veteran centre-back Carlos Marchena believes Deportivo La Coruna can exploit Barcelona’s defensive vulnerability on Saturday.

The newly promoted Galicians host League leaders Barca at Riazor on Saturday night.

“They play with a lot of people in front of the ball,” Marchena stated at a Press conference. “But they can also suffer because they defend with few people.”

The 33-year-old doesn't think the international break or 'FIFA virus' will have an adverse effect on Tito Vilanova's side though.

“A normal team suffers the week after international matches, but Barcelona are not a normal team.

“They make you suffer and despair, because they always have the ball, but our intent must be make the most of our opportunities and break quickly.

“The teams that have made Barca suffer are those that played quick counter attacks, pressurising well.

“We are going to try and compete, with much respect but no fear.”

Marchena is looking forward to being reunited with former Spain teammates Xavi and Andres Iniesta, and confident he has recovered from a recent bout of conjunctivitis.

“They are dear people, what I lived with them will last a lifetime.

“I'm much better, but I still have the left eye a bit closed. Visibility is already good, but you need to keep four eyes open against Barca!”

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La Liga - Club News