Pellegrini

“I see Málaga as a very strong team at the moment, as they have been all year.  We were determined to get through to the semi-finals of the Copa del Rey, but at the same time we knew how tough it would be to defeat Barça.   We always said if we get knocked out of the competition, it would be as a result of a very strong Barcelona, rather than a poor Málaga performance.  I think we played fantastic football, coming away from the Nou Camp with a great result in the first leg, but just losing out midway throughout the second half of the second leg.  Some of our key players weren’t present for that match, including Isco, Toulalan, Baptista and Monreal, who would have been crucial additions to the team.  Barça performed brilliantly and we congratulated them for qualifying through to the semi-finals.  Our focus is now solely on the League, and we hope to gain three points from Sunday’s game against a tough rival.”
 
“It’s always difficult playing League matches away from home.  Mallorca are in a tough position and will be extremely motivated to keep the three points at home.  I hope we’re the superior side tomorrow night and have the capability to come home with a victory.”
 
“Of the 19 players to be selected for the line-up, we’re fortunate at the moment that we haven’t got any injuries and they’re all available.  It’s of no interest to the Club if Seba or Buonanotte leave, as we’re a vey limited squad.  We’ve performed brilliantly in three competitions with 18 or 19 players, and despite the interest shown in both these players, we have no interest in letting either of them go.”
 
“We need to see how the two new players get on, though they’ve already shown they’re more than capable.  I think it’s always important to have a certain degree of competition within a team, that way we can always strive for better results.  As coach, my job is to select the players who are in the best condition for the team line-up.”