Statements by Pellegrini

“We had our last match on Tuesday, and are playing again on Sunday, which is enough time for the team to recover.  The crucial thing is that we’re completely focused on the League, which is most important in the evaluation of our performance throughout the season.  Perhaps more significance is placed on other competitions, particularly if you have a poor performance in certain matches.  But we’re focusing on bringing three points home against a tough rival, on a difficult pitch.”
 
“Athletic didn’t get off to a great start last season, though they soon made up for it as the year went on.  Marcelo Bielsa is a fantastic coach, who possesses a certain style of football.  He’s also very demanding of his team, and I think Athletic are as dangerous now as they were last season.”

“There’s very little difference between winning and losing; it’s often just a case of a lack of concentration and intensity in game play.  A small oversight can lead to a goal, which can dramatically change the result before you know it.  We’re up against a difficult rival, though the team is totally focused on winning the game, like we’ve kept saying over the past few weeks.  I think the boys are perfectly capable of winning this match.”

“It’s so important that the players remain calm during these competitions, and that there’s order throughout the team.  There’s a lot to take into consideration from a sporting and economic point of view with regards to the Champions League, but it’s also important that the Club knows what the future holds.  There’s the possibility of continuing with this project, creating an entire Sports Village, or having a different management.  There are a series of projects that have all been postponed, and the owners need to determine what will happen in the future.”