Luis Enrique has revealed that Barcelona intend to sign a replacement for Pedro Rodriguez ahead of Sunday's trip to Athletic Bilbao in La Liga.
The winger ended summer-long speculation about his future by joining Chelsea for €30m earlier in the week, and his former Coach admits his departure has left La Blaugrana a little short.
“With Pedro, we saw it coming because he wanted [to leave]. We're working on strengthening the team because we counted on Pedro,” he began.
“Ninety minutes seems too much [for Jordi Alba]. We don't have many more options, but I can always invent something.
“[On Neymar's mumps], it's like his pre-season has started now. You can't do anything about unforeseen circumstances, but he's doing well.
“[On the FIFA transfer ban], it was a tough and heavy punishment and we're aware of this. We're used to being reprimanded here but nonetheless ready to compete.
“Last season, we weren't the favourites because Atletico had won the League. This season, however, we're the favourites. We'll see how it goes.
“There are four teams in with a big chance of winning the League title.
“[On their Athletic rematch], the circumstances are better now than they were.
“Now, we're fresh and they've just played in Europe. I care about every last detail when we play Athletic.
“It was a standard pre-season because we competed well, but we'll only draw conclusions at the end of the season. Right now, we're where we wanted to be.
“We've seen the return of great players with great professionalism, all of whom are very excited to win more trophies.
“[On who will be No 1], I don't know yet, but whoever plays [on Sunday] need not play the entire League.”
