A complete match
“I think it was a good game, fairly complete, particularly in the first half. We got on the right track quickly, which made it easier for us to dominate the second half. Despite the result, the rival demanded a lot from us physically, and it was also a match of combinative play where being precise in the details allowed us to generate chances and take away a result like we did tonight. I’m very happy with the goals and seeing how much the fans enjoyed it. We’ll all move forward together, and become stronger every day.”
Good dynamic
“I think we need to be aware of the good sensations we’ve shown in recent games, even without points, against Sevilla and Barcelona, but it’s clear that regardless of these matches, we’ve had a successful streak and are in a good dynamic, beyond the points. What makes me the most optimistic is the level the team is at, the sensations they convey, with better or worse results. The fans again enjoyed the game, which is very important to us as it gives us greater strength, so from here until the end of the season we have to experience many more nights like this.”
Atsu’s debut
“Atsu was all charged up, he played a good 45 minutes so it didn’t make sense for him to do much more in the second half, when we could bring on fresh players. He did a good job and I’m pleased.”
Grateful to the fans
“I am very grateful to the fans for how they treat me, not just at times like this after a 3-0 win, but also in the more difficult moments. That’s when I’m immensely appreciative. Their support helps me to do my best, enabling the fans to enjoy their team each day and really feel identified with it. They know how to deal with the good times and the bad, and for that I’m incredibly grateful.
Professionalism
“We’re changing a lot of line-ups, also led by the absences through injury and suspension. The players on the pitch show their skill level, and the team continues to perform and compete well, which I think is credit to those members of the team who, when they don’t participate, keep working hard as they’re true professionals.”
Good time for Juanpi
“Everyone’s now talking about how well Juanpi plays, and when he started on the wing we were going through a critical time. Now it’s a situation where, with his strength as a player, and playing such a big part, he’s performing in a position that isn’t ideal for him. He’s a central player, but he’s making sacrifices to show the skills he has in numerous actions on the pitch. He brings a great deal of combinative play and is scoring goals, but with everyone saying he’s playing well, I’m going to be a little more critical and say he could do better.”
