Barcelona manager Ernesto Valverde names Chelsea’s two biggest threats
After they were paired with Chelsea in the Champions League last 16, Barcelona manager Ernesto Valverde has spoken out about the draw and who he considers to be the Blues’ two biggest threats.
Despite having failed to win any of the past seven meetings between the two clubs, Barca are strong favourites to progress against Antonio Conte’s side and have the advantage of playing the second leg at home.
They are enjoying a good season under new manager Valverde, and although maybe not quite as free-flowing as they once were, the Blaugrana are getting results this season which is what they need to dethrone rivals and current Spanish and European champions Real Madrid.
The former Athletic Bilbao manager pinpointed two Chelsea players ahead of the tie, which will take place on February 20th and March 14th.
“With Alvaro Morata, they have speed in attack and Eden Hazard is very good between the lines.” he said.
“They’re a strong team. It’s a hard draw for us, but we knew that nothing was going to be easy because there were very good teams in the draw.”
“Chelsea are the champions of the Premier League, but we will play with enthusiasm because although it will be difficult, it’s a very nice tie for us and for the supporters. In that aspect, it’s easy to motivate the players.”
It’s no surprise that Morata and Hazard were the two players he identifed. The latter has attracted interest from Barca and Real Madrid recently.
Barcelona manager Ernesto Valverde names Chelsea’s two biggest threats
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