Luis Enrique insists Spain will be ‘ambitious and try to win from the start’ against Italy in the Nations League semi-final, but hit out at the media. ‘I know football much better than you do.’
The Nations League semi-final kicks off at San Siro on Wednesday at 19.45 UK time (18.45 GMT).
The other semi-final is between Belgium and France, in Turin on Thursday.
Former Roma coach Luis Enrique seemed irritable during his press conference this evening, hitting back at comments from the Spanish reporters, particularly on his refusal to use classic centre-forwards or any Real Madrid players.
“There are always six or seven forwards in the squad, players who can be used in the centre or on the wings. I am a very attack-minded coach and this always remains our objective,” he said.
“To be perfectly honest, I don’t watch you, I don’t listen to you and I am not very interested in what you in the media say about the team. It’s the usual list, the 23 players most suited and ready right now to face this Nations League challenge. Time will tell if I am right.
“I don’t have to read the media coverage, because I know football much better than you do and I have more information than you as well. I know how I want the team to play. I haven’t read the papers for many years.”
Spain were eliminated in the UEFA EURO 2020 semi-final by Italy on penalties at Wembley Stadium, with the Azzurri going on to lift the trophy.
Does Luis Enrique still believe Spain are a better squad than the Nazionale?
“I don’t know, as usual I will be ambitious and try to win the game from the start. My staff and I reflected on the situation, it’s true we are missing a lot of players, but it is positive that we have so many talented players ready to represent Spain.
“It’s not about attacking or even defending with individuals, it’s about doing both as a team. We will try to adapt to our opponents, create more scoring opportunities, control the ball and score goals. It’s a very exciting match, with a lot at stake.
“We must consider the Nations League to be a reward, as we are part of the four best teams and that is exciting for us. We must be ambitious, keep trying to improve and enjoy the moment.”
Luis Enrique called up Sergi Roberto as the latest addition to a squad that lost several players to injury already, including Marcos Llorente.
“I gave Sergi Roberto his debut, so I know what he can do. He can play in central midfield, right-back or as a playmaker, so as a coach I find him very interesting.”
LIVE TMW – Spagna, Luis Enrique attacca la stampa: “Conosco il calcio molto meglio di voi” https://t.co/JTye1ABqbT
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