Preparation for #BarçaMálaga
“Between the players who have been on international duty coupled with the absences, it’s tough to prepare for a match. Today was the only day we’ve had all available players back at work, and we tried to get as close to the match we want to play tomorrow as we could”.
Excitement
“I have no doubts regarding the way to play, I have it practically decided. Having fewer players available means you don’t have to play things over in your head as much. Those who will be in action are pumped up and ready to play a good game. With regard to difficulties with the line-up and called-up players, I’ve had very few”.
Precedents
“It’d be wonderful if the team performed at a level similar to previous seasons, where they’ve played great matches. Every game and every season is different. The players approach each match in a distinct way. It’s a joy to know that Málaga have been capable of competing at a very high level against Barça. We hope it continues, but nothing was guaranteed that the previous seasons turned out the way they did”.
Injuries
“We’re trying to regain as many players as possible, knowing that there was little time since the injuries were sustained until this next match. We’re doing all we can to recover these players. We’ll evaluate whether it’s worth running any risks, or to commit to other players who would welcome the opportunity to play”.
Style of play
“This will depend on the moment and the situation. If we see we’re secure and are controlling the game, pushing forward is a good option. However, if we find they’re pushing us, we’ll have no choice but to retreat. Barcelona push you so much into your field that you’re forced to retreat whether you like it or not”.
Perfect location
“It would be the perfect place to start winning away from home. Every match is a different story; the one you haven’t won doesn’t guarantee anything, in the same way as the match you have won”.
Maximum demand
“In respect of the entity of the rival, it’s huge, as big as, or perhaps larger than that of Atlético de Madrid. We know the rival will demand a great deal from us, so we’ll need to work hard. I hope we don’t make the same mistakes as we did against Atlético that cost us the game. I see my players as very involved”.
