Tissone begins by talking about the start of training: “It’s an advantage to be in training from the start of the pre-season. You feel more comfortable physically, on a par with your teammates and getting to know how the coach works. It’s a bonus that makes it easier for me. I’m looking ahead to the forthcoming season calmly and serenely. We’re all at the same level and on equal terms. We need to demonstrate to the coach which of us deserves a place in the starting line-up for every match. We’re getting along well during the start of this pre-season, but it can be more difficult. Resuming training for the first few days isn’t easy, but we’re professional players and it’s not the first time we’re been in a pre-season training schedule. It’s very hot which is influencing our training sessions more, but little by little we’re becoming more accustomed to the climate.”
The Argentine midfielder faces a special season ahead: “It’s a revalidation, I hope it’ll be a different season. I’ll give the best of myself, as always. I work with tranquillity and serenity. My objective is to return to the levels I was at in Italy and when I first started with Málaga, to again feel like a footballer at 100 per cent. It’s now time to go back to how I was in previous years. I feel great and have worked a great deal over the holidays in order to arrive at this pre-season in the best way and prove my fitness level. I must now work hard to show that the old Tissone from years before is back.”
Tissone assesses the competitiveness in midfield, as well as the new players who have arrived on the squad: “We have a lot of players in midfield, each one with different characteristics. This helps us to grow and become more motivated. It’s crucial to have top level teammates as it always keeps us at our best. The guys that have just arrived are great and have good experience. It wasn’t difficult for them to adapt to the group, which is very open. We hope they enjoy being with us this season and feel even better. If things go well for them, they’ll work out well for the team.”
Lastly, the ‘Malaguista’ midfielder talks about the team’s objectives for next season: “Our aim is to secure permanency, have a peaceful year and ensure the fans enjoy it. Every year we face different adversities, but we must be aware that we are a team in reconstruction and the start won’t be easy.”
