Real Sociedad vs Barcelona - Luis Enrique hoping to lead Barcelona to rare victory

Luis Enrique has described Barcelona's fixture at Real Sociedad on Saturday as their "most difficult away match of the season".

The reigning European and Spanish champions visit Sociedad in the Primera Division six points ahead of second-placed Atletico Madrid, who they also lead 2-1 after their Champions League quarter-final first leg.

However, they head into the game at Sociedad looking to win for the first time in three league games following a draw at Villarreal and a 2-1 home defeat by Real Madrid.

Not winning would invite pressure and likely reduce their advantage in the league but Barca have lost four and drawn one of their past five visits to Sociedad, with their last victory in San Sebastian coming in 2006-07.

Enrique, in quotes published by Fox Sports, told reporters: "If we look at the precedents it is clear that there is no other stadium in Spain as difficult for us.

"I would say that it is the most difficult away match of the season. We are in the situation that we need to show that we are consistent and strong.

"Since Real Sociedad returned to the top flight Barcelona hasn't won there, it doesn't matter which manager is in charge, so there is something to this.

"A streak that long merits some reflection to evaluate what has happened so we can get to work, because only one thing is certain, it will be a difficult match."

Luis Suarez is suspended, so Munir El Haddadi is likely to replace him in Barca's front three alongside Lionel Messi and Neymar.

Enrique could yet make further changes, in order to rest his team ahead of Wednesday's quarter-final second leg at Atletico, with Sergi Roberto, Arda Turan and Rafinha all in contention to start in midfield.

The Barca coach added: "Munir has matured a lot this season, both as a footballer and as a person. He's ready for every opportunity. He's a player for the future."

Midfielder Asier Illarramendi, once of Real Madrid, is among those expected to start for La Real, and he told the club's official website: "We have shown in recent years that we can beat Barca and we can do it again on.

"This team can beat anyone when we play well.

"Until it is mathematically decided Barca will have to fight and I am sure Atletico and Real Madrid won't give up."