Levante boss not backing out of Barcelona challenge – ‘We know how we will compete’ | OneFootball

Levante manager Julian Calero has spoken ahead of his side’s clash with Barcelona at the Ciutat de Valencia, a stadium where the Catalans have often struggled in past visits.

Despite acknowledging the strength of Hansi Flick’s team, Calero made it clear that his players will not simply step aside for the La Liga giants.

“We know how we’re going to try to compete,” he began saying.

“It is a team that not only has a lot of talent, but is in great shape, with a lot of confidence, with many players in good dynamics and that makes the match more complicated, but that does not mean that we do not have options,” said the Levante coach.

Aware of the challenge

Barcelona arrive in Valencia as one of the most in-form sides, with Flick’s philosophy already visible on the pitch.

The team is pressing high, creating chances, and showing more fluidity in attack, which makes them difficult to contain.

Calero is confident heading into the Barcelona game. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Calero recognised these qualities, while also analysing the tactical challenges his side will face.

“If you defend them high, they look for your back. If you defend low, they harass you, and on top of that, they pressure you to lose. They don’t let you run,” he added.

Levante determined to test Barcelona

While Calero praised the quality of Barça, he also underlined that Levante will not approach the match with fear.

“The question is whether we are going to be able to solve the problems that they are going to generate for us.

“If we can make them feel uneasy, we will achieve things that belong to our game plan. We are not going to roll out the red carpet for them,” he explained.

Lastly, the Levante coach also called for the backing of the home supporters, insisting their role could be decisive against such a strong opponent. “We need the strength of our people from minute minus one,” he said.

Source: SPORT