Enrique: Masche will renew

Luis Enrique believes Javier Mascherano will renew with Barcelona and discusses Lionel Messi’s international retirement.

Mascherano was at one point in the summer strongly linked with a move away from Barca, possibly to Juventus, but Enrique told a Press conference he’s confident the Argentine will extend his Camp Nou stay.

“I’d take this opportunity to say that I hope Mascherano renews soon. He’s a vital player for us. There’s a negotiation with him and I know this will be the case. He’s key,” Lucho said, Mundo Deportivo reports.

Messi, meanwhile, quit the Argentina set-up after defeat in the Copa America, and Enrique admitted it would be better for Barca if the forward’s recusal held.

“Leo will be the same as ever, with the excitement of playing. He’s had more of a rest for the Copa America and I’m convinced he’ll come back as usual, excited and eager. His natural habitat is the pitch and there isn’t a glimmer of doubt he won’t be perfect. I have zero worries,” Enrique said.

“Certainly, he could have won the Copa America but football teaches you that you can be a team with a thousand wonders and a team which deserves it less can win. But I see Messi as the same as previous seasons.

“As the Barca Coach I’m open to any possibility that doesn’t harm us, it’s not perfect, but it will avoid tiring out the player. He spoke at a difficult time. He’ll be the one to decide. I’d like to keep watching as a fan, but, thinking selfishly, I’m open to anything.”

Tags Javier Mascherano Lionel Messi Luis Enrique
La Liga - Club News