Luis Enrique points to France Nations League woes as World Cup debate heats up
Spain are yet to produce a convincing performance in the Nations League, but Luis Enrique is not worried.
Luis Enrique cited the struggles of France in the Nations League as debates continue as to the strength of Spain’s World Cup credentials.
Spain play their final Nations League fixture of this window on Sunday, at home to Czech Republic, having picked up just five points from three games.
A pair of draws with Portugal and Czech Republic preceded a narrow 1-0 victory over strugglers Switzerland.
Luis Enrique defended his team selection and knowledge of football after the latter win, and the Spain coach again went on the front foot when asked about what La Roja’s Nations League term meant for Qatar 2022.
“Nobody is interested in the other results of Group A”
“It’s not about what I understand or don’t understand. It’s about looking at things with perspective. Nobody is interested in the other results of Group A,” he told reporters.
“If someone expects us to win every game then they do not know what modern football is.
“Look at the struggles of France, champion of the world and Nations League – we are not different. But we are a great team that can beat any rival, that’s for sure.”
As for who is the favourite for the World Cup, Luis Enrique finds it hard to look past two South American giants.
“I see Argentina above the rest and Brazil too, well above the rest,” he added.
Álvaro Morata also came in for special praise from the Spain boss, who believes the striker is the best defensive forward on the continent.
“All wingers can play as a nine. The strikers that I have brought not all of them can play as a winger,” he continued.
“Morata can. I am not going to compare players but on a defensive level, no one beats Morata in Europe. He has an intelligence when it comes to pressing and physical conditions beyond any doubt.
“Then on top of that with the ball he has been very good, he has given us superiority. We want those who participate to know that they have an offensive side and another clear defensive one.
“With us if they don’t do the defensive work, we can’t be compact.”