‘I’m among Spain’s top 20 coaches’ – Luis Enrique hits back at La Liga award omission

The Blaugrana coach was not named among the top three for the league’s best coach award, despite leading them to the title last term

Barcelona boss Luis Enrique joked about missing out on being named La Liga coach of the year, saying he considers himself among the top 20 in the Spanish top flight.

Despite leading Barca to the title last season, Luis Enrique missed out on the top three in the award, which was won by Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone.

Asked about not being a finalist, the 46-year-old joked about his standing among the league’s coaches.

“That’s a very good question. I believe I’m amongst the 20 best coaches,” Luis Enrique said.

“Because there are only 20 coaches in the Primera Division.”

The Blaugrana coach played down the importance of the awards gala, saying the focus needed to be elsewhere.

He said: “I didn’t have an invitation but, still, you already know I don’t normally attend these kinds of events.

“As for the players [that were absent too] you better ask them.

“Nevertheless, I do not think that should be the most important thing. The key is improving Spanish football and that’s what the directors should be focused on.”