Luis Enrique says he “enjoyed every minute” of Barcelona’s 2-1 victory over Atletico Madrid in La Liga on Saturday.
Neymar’s free kick and a goal from substitute Lionel Messi cancelled out Fernando Torres’ opener at the Vicente Calderon, thereby handing the Catalans all three points, and the Coach hailed his players for a “very focused and consistent” display.
“Both teams wanted the win, no doubt,” he said after the game.
“We played at a very high level from the start and were very consistent. That a team like Atletico made so few chances showed we were very focused.
“We dominated the defensive and attacking aspects of the game and even turned it around when things seemed to be going against us. I enjoyed every minute of my team’s performance.
“I’m very happy as it was important to earn three points against a direct rival, but a lot remains to be done.
“I had a chance to speak to him [before the game]. Leo’s important to us and his status is key so he can play as many minutes as possible.
“However, we also understand that he came into the match on the back of long-distance travelling, so it’s better for us not to risk him, with the intention of bringing him on if we needed to and him proving decisive like always.
“It’s important to have a big squad with so many options.
“From where we were standing, we couldn’t see anything, but we rely a little on what the players do.
“When you see many players raise their hands, it normally means something has happened.
“The reasons behind a referee’s interpretation can be difficult to understand, but we didn’t get a chance to see the incidents.
“[On Thomas Vermaelen’s injury], whenever a player is injured, it’s unpleasant for everyone.”
