“We’re in the important part of the season. It’s the best moment of the season, so we need to prepare well and stay focused. This is a crucial moment in the Champions League. Tuesday’s match will take place in an exceptional stadium against a team that is difficult to play against, like Sporting. They’re a team with quality players who like to keep possession. It will be tight and challenging, perhaps similar to the match in Bilbao. We knew we had a tough schedule. We still need three points to secure qualification for the round of 16.”
“I like Sporting and their way of playing from the back. They have personality and play well with and without the ball. I expect a tough match, and we’ll do everything to win.”
“It’s easy to explain. There’s no better competition for a player or for a team. In terms of performance, it’s along the same lines as last season, when we dominated matches but didn’t win due to a lack of efficiency.”
“It’s normal to have ups and downs during the season. Nuno is physically in good shape and has technical qualities. Even before coaching him, I thought he was brilliant. It’s a real pleasure to have a player like Nuno Mendes.”
“I’m lucky to work with four Portuguese players and with my sporting director. It’s very easy because all four have both playing skills and personal qualities. I’m fortunate to have these four people.”
