Pep Aware Of “Hellish” Consequences

The Blaugrana were stunned 1-0 at newly promoted Numancia a fortnight ago in La Liga’s opening day and as they prepare for their first home game of the season this weekend against Racing, Guardiola knows that there is no room for another slip-up.

In spite of the pressure, Pep assured that he is not even thinking about defeat and he is only focusing his attentions on gaining maximum points and thrilling the Camp Nou faithful.

“When we play at home, we always have to play well, not just in attack but also in defence,” Guardiola explained in a press conference on the eve of the match.

“Racing are a well organized team and they will be difficult to break down, although they are not as defensive (as Numancia) because they defend from their midfield line.

“But our approach to the game will be the same: to create spaces, to play with a lot of rhythm, to have patience and not anxiety, and to settle the game as early as possible.

“If we lose again, everyone will give us hell,” he warned.

The coach then confirmed that he will be looking to make some changes to the starting eleven to accommodate the return of his players from International break this past week and the team’s Champions League opener in a few days’ time.

“Leo (Messi) is tired from all the travelling and the time change but he is excited, in good spirits and he’s not carrying any injuries.

“But whatever changes I make for the game will be for footballing reasons and nothing else,” the coach declared.

KS Leong