Luis Enrique has hailed “electric” Neymar after the Brazilian scored four and created another in Barcelona’s 5-2 win over Rayo Vallecano on Saturday evening.
There have been calls for the Brazilian to step up in the absence of Lionel Messi and that was certainly the case at Camp Nou.
“Neymar is electric,” Luis Enrique said in his press conference after the victory.
“Defences can either foul him and give way a penalty or he will score goals. He’s really, really good. In two words? Impresionante.”
Without Neymar’s contribution, Barça may well have dropped points against a spirited and impressive Rayo side.
Aware of that, Luis Enrique was critical of his side’s performance after the half time interval.
“I think we played well in the first half, but poorly in the second half, which is when we were effective,” he added.
“We lost a lot of balls after the break — we have to improve. At least there are not many Rayos in this league!
“I don’t know if they’re the most brave side [in La Liga], because there is Celta Vigo, too.
“But I am a fan of [their manager] Paco Jemez and I would like to see him as a big club.”
Rayo ended the match having had more of the ball than their hosts, although that didn’t concern the Barça boss.
“I am not worried about losing the possession against Rayo… or against any team,” he stated.