Statements from Pellegrini

A win with a European flavour
“You can never take anything for granted in football.  We never set a goal at the beginning of the season, but I hope we can finish as high up the table as we possibly can.  I was so impressed with how the team played today, against Valencia who had very few goal opportunities.  Judging by the team’s performance in this game, I have every confidence we’ll get to Europe next year”.

Goal opportunities / Maresca injury
“We created a lot of chances to score, as well as several shots hitting the posts.  Our intention from the start was to end the game with three points, and then see how we stand regarding goal difference.  The attitude of the fans today was great, and they had high expectations of this match.  However from a personal point of view, I can’t say it was a special game, until we’ve achieved our goals.  There’s not long to go now, and unfortunately I think Maresca won’t recover from his injury very easily”.

President Al-Thani present at this match
“With regards to short and long term objectives, we’ll analyse our performance when the season has finished.  As the team has progressed, they’ve gained the mentality of a major team.  It was important to ensure Al Thani enjoyed the match, and for the owner of the Club to see them win, it’s wonderful, and something which he values greatly.  I know he’s very pleased with the team’s performance”.

Next rival: Barcelona
“Defeating Valencia is a big motivation for us, as we now face a big rival.  We’ll play in Camp Nou how we’ve been playing all year, against a major team like Barcelona, and we’ll maintain our focus on the three points”.