In the press conference held today, Monday, Luis Enrique spoke confidently about his team’s preparations for the upcoming match against Arsenal, stating: “It’s the Champions League semi-finals, and we must prepare for it in the same way we prepare for any other match; the key will be managing the different moments of the match as best as possible.”
When asked about the differences between his team and Arsenal, Enrique replied: “Arsenal is one of the best European teams right now, and their coach Mikel Arteta is doing a great job. Of course, my team is my favorite, and that’s why I’m here. We know how difficult it is to play against Arsenal at their stadium and in this high physical intensity.”
Enrique talked about the difference between the previous encounter against Arsenal last October and this match, saying: “The difference between that match and today is six months; that’s a huge difference. I reviewed that match and saw the development of my team; we are better now than ever. The tough group we faced forced us to raise our level, and that helped us a lot despite its danger.”
Luis Enrique pointed out his feeling of the negative atmosphere created by the media around his team, saying: “I am not talking about our fans or club staff, but only about your questions as journalists. I might be wrong, but I feel there is a negative climate.”
He added jokingly about his ability to absorb pressure: “I am like cork; I can absorb all the negativity without sinking. If I am the saddest person in the team, imagine the state of the players.”
Regarding how to deal with pressure at this stage of the tournament, Enrique said: “Dealing with pressure is difficult, but it doesn’t suffocate us. We aspire to write history and achieve what others have not. I see my team very confident and extremely excited; the Parisian fans want to see a wonderful journey, and that’s what we are trying to achieve.”
He also commented on how much his team benefits from previous victories over English teams, saying: “That might have a positive impact, but that’s a question for Mikel Arteta. We are very confident and eagerly looking forward to this match.”
