Luis Enrique admits Ivan Rakitic’s injury has “disrupted” Barcelona’s plans after the midfielder tore his calf against BATE Borisov on Wednesday.
The Croat has been ruled out of La Blaugrana’s next game against Villarreal on Sunday and could yet miss the Clasico on November 21, leaving the Coach desperate for the player to make a prompt recovery.
“I’m happy with what I’ve seen,” he said after the 3-0 Champions League win.
“We gave good intensity and caused [BATE] problems. Sergio [Busquets] had a perfect match and couldn’t have done any better. He’s spectacular.
“The Rakitic injury disrupts our ability to maintain our current level and makes the game against Villarreal more difficult. We hope he recovers quickly.
“[On Lionel Messi’s absence], results have followed and we’re doing well, but Messi is always missed, even though the team have resources [to cover him].
“Am I worried about the Clasico? I have no other match in the head than Villarreal on Sunday.
“[On Marc-Andre ter Stegen’s performance], he has the quality and confidence to play. I won’t make a public trial of his performance.”
