Pellegrini stresses the importance of gaining three points from this match, to return to winning ways at La Rosaleda.  “Unfortunately we haven’t won the last three matches at La Rosaleda, for a number of reasons.  We managed to achieve some away victories and points add up to the same amount whether they’re from home or away games, but it’d be great to get a win here tomorrow and dedicate three points to our fans.  A win would be great for us to maintain our League position, as there are several teams all fighting for European positions.”
 
The Blue and Whites’ coach has always had a lot of respect for the Argentinean-born trainer of Málaga’s next rival, Marcelo Bielsa, and of his footballing philosophy.  “He’s a fantastic coach and has had great success in Argentina, Chile and Spain, and always instils certain characteristics on his teams.  However, unfortunately Athletic haven’t had the best season this year, but they’ll always be a dangerous rival who focuses on the attack, with a strong determination to get a good result.  Marcelo Bielsa’s team, just because they haven’t been getting great results recently, would never come here and speculate the way a match is going to go.  I wish him all the best, and hope that after this match they can achieve some important wins.”
 
Following this League match, Málaga CF will be concentrating on the last 16 of the UEFA Champions League game against FC Porto.  The coach isn’t planning to alter his game plan.  “Tomorrow we’ll focus on the best team to play against Athletic Club de Bilbao, and then we’ll concentrate on FC Porto.”

“We’re all very motivated and in high spirits, especially after last week’s victory.  There have been some problems physically with Weligton, Jesús Gámez, Sergio Sánchez and Duda, but generally speaking, we’re doing well,” concludes the Málaga CF coach.