Statements ahead of the showdown with AEK her coach did Marseille, Gennaro Gattusospeaking well of the Union and stressing that his players will have to give 100% if they want to leave the “OPAP Arena” victorious.
What the Marseille coach said in detail:
On Ronzier’s absence: “We also have apart from Kodogbia and Beretu, there is also Bilal Nadir who is qualified and can take charge. It’s not nice to lose a player like that, but tomorrow we’ll do everything we can with the players we have.”.
On Aubameyang’s injury and criticism: “I don’t think it’s anything too serious. The doctors asked us to be careful. He plays very well but doesn’t score, if he wasn’t called Aubameyang you wouldn’t criticize him so much. Pierre is an evasive player, Vitinia and Pierre are two different strikers, Vitinia is more physical. They are involved in our team’s game and that is important. I am happy with my two strikers. Our attack is at a very high level”.
On the difference Marseille presents between Europa League and Ligue 1: “There is no difference. Except for the results. Did we play our best half against Brighton? And with Nice? And with Lille? We can say that everything is black, that nothing works. Our position in the league table is poor, but that does not reflect the team’s performances. I don’t focus on the negative. We have to work to improve, but I don’t see a team that gives only negative results”.
For the game with AEK: “As for tomorrow’s game, it’s going to be very difficult. In Marseille we had our fans, it will be hell. We have to be 100% focused on this pitch against a team with players who suit the style of play. Our opponent is a team that does not change. Whether at home or away, they play the same style of football and do it well. We have to be very well prepared and show them the respect they deserve. AEK is a strong team in the physical game. It is very difficult to get the ball from them. You have to lose a lot of energy and it is very good in the vertical game. I really congratulate those who made this team. She fits what her coach wants her to play.”.
For Kodogbia: “There’s nothing he can’t do. He’s a great player, let’s let him show it on the pitch tomorrow. I expect the same performance from all footballers”.
For OPAP Arena: “I like this type of stadium where people are close to the pitch. I feel good in Greece. I respect the Greek public very much”.
Source: Sport Fm
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