READ BARCELONA MANAGER LUIS ENRIQUE'S STATEMENT AHEAD OF EL-CLASSICO

There was huge expectation inside the press room
to hear what Luis Enrique had to say about 'el
Clásico' : "It's different from other games, it's
against the old enemy and if we win, they drop
points. It's a very attractive match. Games against
Real Madrid always have a special meaning to the
Camp Nou faithful. It's an important game, but it
won't decide the title race".

On Busquets: "He's one option. He isn't fully fit
going into the game, but he's available".
On who are favourites: "This type of game doesn't
usually have a clear favourite. Home advantage is
important because the crowd can play a huge role".

On Real Madrid: "We've looked long and hard at
Real Madrid, their strengths, the fact that
they're the reigning European champions and led
the La Liga title race for 16 straight weeks. We'll
have to be at our best both up front and at the
back".

On Ancelotti: "We both know what it's all about and
how losing can affect our jobs. Being a football
coach means being constantly under threat".

On his strikers: "They're nothing without the other
eight players in the team. In order to beat Real
Madrid we need our entire starting XI playing,
attacking and defending together".
On emotions: "These games are special. I've been
lucky enough to play a part in lots of them".

On Messi: "What sets Leo apart from the rest is his
ability to read a match, decide what the game
needs beyond his own goalscoring stats".

On Ronaldo: "Any of the attacking players are
capable of deciding a game. They're all world-
class".

On Neymar: "The forwards could prove to be the
deciding factor. We'll be stronger together".