Football
Sam Marsden, Barcelona correspondent 7y

Luis Enrique backs 'best' Barcelona squad ahead of Real Madrid showdown

Barcelona coach Luis Enrique has said he still believes he has his best squad since taking charge, but conceded improvements are needed after they fell six points behind league leaders Real Madrid.

He won the Treble in his first year in charge at the Camp Nou and the Double last season, and after signing six players in preseason he said the squad was stronger than ever.

But although back-to-back league draws have left his side lagging behind, Luis Enrique told a news conference ahead of Wednesday's Copa del Rey game against Hercules: "I still think this is the best squad I've had.

"There are plenty of games left to show that. We need to defend that with results, of course, but [I still think] it's my best squad.

"Evidently we need to improve, but there is no reason for excessive concern other than isolated incidents.

"We're still well poised to win all the titles, but we need improvements -- I know that and the players know that.

"Let's not exaggerate. People did that in my first season and we won the Treble. But we're the first to recognise things need to be improved."

Luis Enrique also said his players felt confident and he had complete faith they would pick themselves up for the Clasico.

And he brushed off the suggestion that Barca's poor performances were a result of losing the passing style and midfield dominance that has brought them so much success throughout the last decade.

"I understand that when there are adverse results people start to talk about these type of things," he added.

"It's that time of the season and lots is being said. It's the players that determine the way we play and, of course, the manager, too, because I believe in using the ball.

"We've been using same system which has won us seven, eight different titles. There are mistakes being made, because we haven't played perfect games this season."

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