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Luis Enrique says Atletico Madrid “have to love me first” amid rumours the former Spain boss could be a long-term replacement for Diego Simeone.
La Roja and Luis Enrique parted ways in the aftermath of a shock last-16 defeat to Morocco on penalties at the World Cup last week, with Luis de la Fuente named as his replacement.
Spanish publication AS reported the former Barcelona head coach is a target for Manchester United and Atleti, despite both positions being occupied.
The links to Atleti would seemingly hold more credence. Diego Simeone has been in charge since 2011, winning two LaLiga titles, as many Europa Leagues, and the Copa del Rey, while they have finished as Champions League runners-up twice.
But with Atleti fifth in the table this season and already 13 points off the pace in LaLiga, there is a feeling the Argentine coach’s time at the Wanda Metropolitano is winding down.
Atleti midfielder Koke and the club’s CEO Miguel Angel Gil Marin have over the past week endorsed Luis Enrique, who says no offers have come his way for his next venture.
“Hey, they have to love me, this is the usual,” he said on a Twitch stream with Ibai Llanos.
“If they don’t call me, if I don’t have offers, I can’t decide. I don’t have any offers at the moment.”
Luis Enrique, who in the same interview said he will wait until next season before deciding his next move and is planning to take part in a mountain bike race with his brother, was also asked about Barca’s young midfield talent Pedri.
The 20-year-old was one of Spain’s star performers and has been tipped to enjoy an exciting future at club and international level.
Luis Enrique is of the same opinion, likening him to a Barca legend and one of the world’s most famous fictional wizards.
“For me Pedri is Harry Potter, he’s a different player,” he added.
“Watching him play, the closest [comparison] is [Andres] Iniesta. And Pedri as a person is a number one.”
