Martino to Real: Mind the Gap

Barça coach thrilled at Puyol return

Speaking to the press ahead of the clash with Osasuna, Tata Martino emphasised his delight at Carles Puyol's long-awaited return to the squad: "It's a huge boost to see Puyol back, all the more so for him. He's been chomping at the bit recently".
"I've been blown away by how eager Puyol is, as if he were a young lad about to make his debut. For me, that's a joy to behold", Martino enthused.
The Argentine tactician believes it is important to kick-start what will be a busy next fortnight, which features a double-header with Milan and the 'Clásico' against Real Madrid. "The first match after the internationals is crucial. It could set the tone for the future in the league. That's why we're completely focused on Osasuna, who I'm sure will try to throw us off our game", he stated.
Martino also played down any injury concerns over the big players missing from the squad. "Piqué is fatigued from so many matches and so much travelling. He reported for international duty with some discomfort, but he was feeling better when he came back and told me he had no trouble during the game", he said, before noting that Alexis Sánchez and Alves are being rested for the same reasons.
As for the 'Clásico', Martino said that "If we go about it the right away, things should turn out the way we want to. We've already opened up the gap at the top. Now we just need to take care of our business", the Argentine claimed, adding that he believes Atlético de Madrid is a genuine contender for the title.
Finally, Barça fans should expect a quiet transfer window, according to Tata: "I was and am still expecting to begin and end the season with an unchanged squad. I spoke to Jonathan [Dos Santos] and he decided to stay".