Luis Enrique has slammed Spain for not appreciating natural talent in light of Neymar’s bad press following Atletico Madrid-Barcelona midweek.
The Brazilian was accused of provoking reactions from Los Colchoneros players during the Catalans’ 3-2 victory at the Vicente Calderon in the Copa del Rey quarter-finals on Wednesday, resulting in Gabi’s dismissal at half-time.
“We live in a strange country where people are more offended by a nutmeg than four or five kicks,” the Coach said at a Press conference.
“Brazilians understand football as a spectacle, which you must have fun and compete.
“All my players put in exquisite performances. If you take football and samba away from a Brazilian, he’s longer Brazilian.
“I won’t reprimand Neymar, I want [our Brazilians] to continue enjoying their football.”
Turning his attentions towards Barca’s visit of Villarreal on Sunday, Enrique demanded an intense performance from his players.
“[Villarreal’s] spectacular run confirms what we already appreciate from Marcelino’s team. We hope to end it,” he added.
“If we don’t press well enough, there’ll be complications, but we won’t simply devote ourselves to defending against Villarreal.
“I’m not interested in the controversy [regarding Jeremy Mathieu’s words]. I’ve said so many times.
“Without a doubt, the results are what matters. We don’t think there’s a before and after following [our defeat at] Anoeta.
“[Javier] Mascherano gives us versatility. He’s pivotal in the dressing room and a leader for us. Leaders are born, not made.
“A team must be in continuous evolution. I consider maintaining an unpredictable team a core value [to my philosophy].
“My players will arrive [for matches] fresh, that’s almost certain. You can now see this in the team.”
