Gerardo Martino: “Squad’s morale could not be higher”

Celta Vigo coach Luis Enrique

Gerardo Martino claimed ahead of the Barcelona – Real Madrid derby that a win would pose more of a psychological blow than the three points collected.

The Barca coach was speaking at a press conference ahead of the Catalans trip to Vigo to play Celta Vigo tonight and said:  “Winning the Clasico is always a boost and the squad’s morale couldn’t be higher”.

Martino felt that his players came through the match well and were in charge for some periods of the game. He thought that Barca was also under the cosh at times, too.

Although Real Madrid now find themselves 6 points adrift behind the Catalans, Martino refused to rule out the “merengues” and said that Madrid would continue to be a threat until they are mathematically ruled out. Martino also believes that Atlético Madrid are a team that will have much to say this season.

Barca therefore have their morale high after their defeat of Real Madrid but Celta also have something to boast about after their 5 nil thrashing of Malaga at the weekend.

Celta’s manager is ex Barca B coach Luis Enrique and Martino doesn’t expect him to change the way they played against Malaga for the Barca match, stating that the Catalans “will have to create their own chances“.

Martino said that would be making changes from the side that started against Real Madrid, but pointed out that he wouldn’t let on as to how many. Gerard Piqué is being rested for the game and the manager explained: the players are gradually seeing how we work and how we rotate the squad. I think that changes are necessary – it’s a long season”.

Meanwhile Celta manager, Luis Enrique said that this Tuesday’s game between his team and Barcelona will be “different” and “special” for him, given his past as a player and coach at the Catalan club.

“It’s a very special game for me, because it will be the first time that I face Barcelona since my time as a player and coach at the club. More than wanting Barca to lose, I want Celta to win,” he said.