Luis Enrique declared ‘Spain’s base is from Real Madrid’ after their 6-0 demolition of Croatia as ‘it’s difficult to stop us when we play like this’.
“It doesn’t make sense to compare national teams and club sides,” the former Barcelona boss said after the Nations League clash.
“We have our idea of playing football and today everything went wonderfully. We started with some doubts, but after that we were brilliant and scored some incredible goals.
“We were very effective. We want to get back to how good we were before. What I’ve liked most in these 10 days is the attitude of the players.
“From what I’ve seen, regardless of the results, I’m delighted. When I hear my name sung, I feel proud, but it’s the players who deserve it. Still, I appreciate it.
“There are many things to improve on. Everything can change in a day. I’m not one of those who exaggerate in victory or martyr in defeat.
“I’m looking for balance. I didn’t know there were six Real Madrid players in the XI, neither do I care;
“They play for the Spanish national team, that’s it. They don’t play for one team or another. Our base is from Real Madrid and it looks good to me.
“No-one from Barcelona? I only see a shirt, the national team’s one. Qualification? We still have to beat England and Croatia again.
“We’re on track, but we haven’t done anything yet. Now’s the time to work and do the things which aren’t seen on the pitch. I’ll watch the back matches and see where we can improve.
“We were facing Croatia, a team who press very well, and we found it difficult to come out with the ball, but after the 20th minute everything changed.
“Our football was quick and vertical, we were good between the lines, ruthless… Ramos with the changes of direction, the runs of our full-backs, the tremendous Asensio with his goals and passes, the pace and finishing of Rodrigo, Busi bringing the ball out… I have nothing to critique. I liked almost everything.
“Ceballos did the same things as when he made his debut for the Under-21s. He played wonderfully between the lines, gave life to his teammates, marked out Modric… It’s what he usually does for Real Madrid.
“It’s difficult to overcome a team who press like Croatia. They were able to score, but then we were superior.
“The attitude of all the players was very good. Asensio scored two goals from two shots. Two players debuted in Gaya or Ceballos, who were superb.
“It’s difficult to stop them when they play like this.”
