Luis Enrique: 'Have the ambition the club deserves'

BACK FROM THE BREAK

"We're used to it. But we have to make sure that the players recover well. We take stock of what has happened for the players with their national teams. And we take into account each player's individual needs to ensure the best possible recovery."

MONACO

"They're one of the best teams in the league, one of the favourites. They have a very high rate of Expected Goals (XG). They're a very good team, both individually and collectively. Obviously, we know it won't be easy. They're a team that I like a lot: they don't second-guess themselves; they're always very effective in attack; and they've got a good defensive unit."

THE SQUAD'S STRENGTHS

"We want to ensure that all the players are competent and able to play. You have to work hard and prepare well, and we're creating a group with a very specific philosophy. I'm lucky to have such talented players who know what's expected of them."

INJURIES

"We have the best squad in the league in my opinion. The only thing is that every time a player gets injured, it's sad because he won't be able to play. But we have a very strong squad at a very high level."

STATE OF MIND

"It's always better to be top of the table. I don't know if that gives you more peace of mind or serenity, but our aim is to win the league. We're very ambitious, but that's the ambition this club deserves."

THE MATCH AGAINST MONACO

"The match is important because Monaco are direct rivals. There are still a lot of games to play. But every time we play a team that has the same objectives as you, it becomes special. But it won't be decisive. It won't be easy, but I haven't had an easy game in Ligue 1 yet."

GONÇALO RAMOS

"It's very good news and I'm delighted. Firstly for the player, and also for the man. He's a player of the future for the club, an impressive player who's capable of adapting his game. I'm very happy that the option has been exercised."