Difference between pre-season and LaLiga

“There’s a major difference, above all with regard to the level of tension.  When you play a pre-season game you are focusing on preparations.  As there are no points in play, and nothing is of importance, the team is much more relaxed.  However, when you’re competing for points, tension is prevalent on the pitch, so in that respect, there is a notable difference.  Coupled with the fact that tonight’s rival is a First Division side, and our pre-season opponents, with the exception of Sampdoria, were of a lower level to us.”

Analysis of the match

“I think during the first half we were a little jumbled, a bit slack.  The team didn’t have the best sensations or give the best performance.  Further on in play, until we scored the goal, the team played better.  Not that this is a justification, but the pitch was unplayable.  It’s impossible to play football on a pitch like that.  However, it was the same for Málaga as it was for Osasuna.  We don’t see it as a justification, because it isn’t.  As soon as we scored the goal, the team thought we were close to victory, but during a move from Osasuna there was a mismatch in defence, the occasion arose and the rival equalised, leaving us practically no time to retaliate.  At the last minute we had a chance to clinch victory.  I also think the team can, and must do more to achieve the three points.”

Positive aspects

“The players’ willingness and desire to please. I believe the team took great care and showed immense interest in doing things right.  Undoubtedly this was the case.  We didn’t play a brilliant match, which cost us two points at home.  I remain, on a positive note, with the reaction of the players following the draw.  We leave with sadness and a little angry, as we were close to victory. I think that is the way forward; that the team is ambitious and has the enthusiasm to win games, these for me are the most positive aspects.”