Valencia defender Nicolás Otamendi acknowledged that as an Argentine, he’s proud of what Lionel Messi has achieved, but maintains that there’s much more to Barcelona his side will have to deal with. He was also quizzed about the possible arrival of Enzo Pérez from Benfica, in the upcoming January transfer window.
“Messi is going through one of his best moments and he keeps making history. As an Argentine, we’re all proud of the level of performance he’s showing.” Began defender Nicolás Otamendi at his press call on Friday, but with the additional caveat that, “It’s not all about Leo though, we all know how Barcelona function as a team and that’s what’s important.”
The many threats that Barcelona will provide a demanding test for Valencia, with Otamendi explaining, “We’re conscious that we’ll need to have a good game, with order in attack and defence, know how to pressure them, attack and have balance to our play. Hopefully throughout the majority of the game, we’ll be fully focused.”
“The important thing is for us to make a strong start, take care of the ball and play our own game. Defensively we’ll have to stay organised and not give the ball away too easily, then try to get forward quickly on the attack. Hopefully things we’ll turn out well for us and we secure a victory at home.”
Having had a new pitch laid at the Mestalla recently, following complaints from players and the coaching staff it wasn’t helping the fluidity of their game previously, Otamendi is satisfied that, “the pitch is now in really good condition. We needed a pitch like this and the club has made a great effort to ensure we’re comfortable with it.”
Along with the earlier talk about Lionel Messi, Otamendi was also asked about another Argentine compatriot, Enzo Pérez, who has strongly been linked with a move from Benfica to Valencia.
“We all know the abilities of Enzo. He would be a good addition technically with his control of the ball and he’s a very good player offensively. Defensively he’s good and he’s a very complete player. These kind of footballers are always good to have as a team-mate.
Following such a glowing reference from Otamendi, he was further asked if there have been words about a move between himself and Enzo Pérez, when the pair have spent time together with the Argentina squad. Understandably, the Valencia defender was a little more cautious with his response.
“When we’re in the international squad we spend some time together and he’s really keen to see things come to a good resolution, if he comes here. It’s not up to me to decide though. His representative will decide. For us it would be important if he comes here, but he hasn’t decided. It’s a matter of negotiation and I can’t say how that will go.”