Saturday, September 12, 2015

Luis Enrique explains why he benched Messi for Atletico Madrid clash

Luis Enrique insists he left Lionel Messi out of Barcelona's starting side to face Atletico Madrid because of the need to protect the Argentine.

Messi was introduced in the 60th minute and scored the winner for the Spanish champions after Neymar had cancelled out Fernando Torres’ opener.

Messi played a full game and found the net in Argentina's 2-2 draw with Mexico in the United States on Wednesday, while forward missed training on Friday due to the birth of his second son Mateo.

“We offered a high level of performance and our defence was solid. Atletico had no chances and we won so I’m very happy,” Luis Enrique told reporters.

“I spoke with Messi and we both understood that he came back from a long trip and it was best not to risk him. He is very important for us and we want him in the best condition, we need to take care of him.

“We have a hard calendar and it is very important to beat a direct rival for the title."

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