'He knows a lot' - Jordi Alba praises Luis Enrique for leading Spain to Qatar World Cup after victory over Sweden
/dnl.eurosport.com/sd/img/placeholder/eurosport_logo_1x1.png){kind=logo}
ByEurosport
Updated 15/11/2021 at 10:26 GMT
Luis Enrique led Spain to the Euro 2020 semi-finals and how now ensured they will be at the 2022 World Cup. However, losing to Italy in the semi-finals of the European championships, falling to France in the Nations League final and some of Spain's flat displays has seen him face regular criticism. Jordi Alba has praised Enrique for leading La Roja to the Qatar.
'A huge load off my mind' - Enrique and Morata react to Spain qualification
Jordi Alba has praised Spain head coach Luis Enrique for leading Spain to the 2022 World Cup.
Alvaro Morata struck late against Sweden in Seville on Sunday night to clinch top spot in Group B for Spain and ensure safe passage to Qatar.
And although Spain were not at their sparkling best against a resolute Sweden side, who now have to settle for a playoff spot, the Barcelona defender says Enrique has been key to their success.
"It is how it is with the players that is so important and how he transmits his message," he said.
"He knows a lot and makes you be alert every minute you are with him. He is a fair coach with everyone and he gives opportunities.
"Tonight was a unique moment, and we have suffered at times, but we are happy."
Spain knew just a draw against Sweden would send them to Qatar in a winner-takes-all clash.
Now that Spain have removed the uncertainty of dropping into the playoffs, Enrique says he has "taken off a 100 kilo backpack" by getting Spain to Qatar.
"I have taken off a 100 kilo backpack," the former Roma, Celta Vigo and Barcelona boss told reporters.
"I have felt more pressure in this qualifying phase than in the Euros or the ‘Final Four’ of the Nations League.
"I have taken a great weight off my shoulders. I am focused on having a good World Cup and I know that if a coach does not win, he receives criticism.
"This is how this wonderful circus of football can be and I accept it. When there is salsa, we dance salsa. And when it’s time to dance pegaditos, we do that.
"What really motivates me is seeing the response of the players and of all the people who are part of the Federation."
Sergio Busquets says Spain have "won people over" by sealing qualification.
“Everything went great, but nobody said it would be easy against an opponent who closes very well on the inside and seeks transitions with fast attackers,” the Barcelona midfielder said.
“We played the game with dominance, and in the end it went well.
"I am very happy for the people who have taken us here and I am very happy to be at the World Cup.
"We work hard as a group, and we do it very well, but sometimes have not reached results we deserved.
"Those who have believed in us were important and gradually we have won people over."
Scan me
Related Topics
Share this article