Four days after breaking all records against Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League, Barcelona have a completely separate focus as they return to their domestic duties against Deportivo la Coruna at the Estadio Riazor.
After overcoming a 4-0 deficit against the French champions, the Blaugrana confirmed their candidacy for another treble, and now, the next three months of competition suddenly appear very exciting.
But the effort and the subsequent joy can play tricks if they are not managed correctly and this is what Luis Enrique fears."It is a handicap to take into account," he said at his pre-match press conference on Saturday. "But I trust in the sanity, wisdom and experience of my players.
"Following this announcement, and with the only exception being the draw for the next stage, Barcelona will try to put the Champions League out of their minds for exactly a month - which is when they will contest the quarterfinals. Focus is on LaLiga, where, beyond the game on Sunday afternoon, the Blaugrana have some complicated commitments.
Next at the Camp Nou are Valencia who always raise their game and after the international break come Granada, a candidate for the title in Sevilla and Malaga, the team that has the most points against Luis Enrique's Barcelona in the last three seasons.
Although El Clasico on April 23 could go some way to deciding the title, the Catalans must begin their title assault at the Riazor. Jordi Alba is likely to return to the starting lineup and the same goes for Andre Gomes and Denis Suarez, the latter discarded by the coaches before the European tie.
Trust in Faycal
Pepe Mel will strengthen Deportivo's midfield. Colak, starter in the last three matches will make way for Faycal, a player who always gives maximum effort. With the Moroccan ahead of the two pivots, the coach wants to make it difficult for Barcelona to get the ball. They will put a lot of pressure on the visitors and, if they can, will steal the ball and go on the counterattack. Since his arrival at Depor, Mel has shown total confidence in Faycal. The coach understands that the situation of the Galician team needs players with character and that he has it.
