Luis Enrique expects surprises in first Spain squad

MADRID, Aug. 13 — New Spain coach Luis Enrique admitted he has a difficult job ahead of him before he names his first squad.
The former Barca boss was confirmed as the long-term successor to Julen Lopetegui in July and has the job of lifting a side which disappointed in this summer’s World Cup.

Speaking on Spanish TV at the halftime break of the Spanish Supercup between FC Barcelona and Sevilla, Luis Enrique admitted he was disappointed at the decision taken by Gerard Pique to retire from international football, but said the defender’s decision, “is not going to change.”

“He took it two years ago and he has had time to think about it. We have to accept it and remember all he has done in these years,” he said.

Luis Enrique’s first games in charge will be UEFA Nations League ties against World Cup semifinalists England and Croatia, who lost to France in this summer’s World Cup final. He said it won’t be easy deciding on who to pick.

“The problem that I have is that I have a list of 72 possible players, so it’s difficult. I have a lot to choose from and that is great, but I need to see the players and what shape they are in. I am sure there will be some surprises,” he said, adding that motivation would not be a problem.
“If we play out first game in Wembley against England, who had a great World Cup, I think we have everything in place to enjoy a great game,” he said. – XINHUA