Farioli: “We didn’t face so much pressure in OAKA – My players have all their attention in Panathinaikos”

THE Francesco Farioli he took some pretty… tough questions at his press conference Ajax ahead of the rematch with Panathinaikos. The Italian coach appeared to be annoyed at times.

“It’s a bit harsh to say that we had a problem with the opponent’s pressure up high in the first game. The essence of the game is to create opportunities and not to accept phases and goals. And if you look at the figures, we didn’t concede many phases. Certainly there were difficulties, but there were also moments when we escaped the pressure but did not have the right final decision. We don’t forget where we come from and build something with a process. This includes mistakes, emotions and we have to manage the situation. We are not perfect, but we are working hard to become better“, he emphasized.

As for those who accuse him that Ajax has become much more… “tight” with him at the helm? “There is no football… Farioli. There is only one football we want to play, the aim is to build a common language and the players can respond to what we ask. It is very important to be humble and work hard. All the pieces are gradually falling into place. The next step is tomorrow’s game, it has multiple importance. We want to secure Europe and stay in contention to qualify for the League Phase of the Europa League. We must continue with the same care and diligence. Panathinaikos come with a busy week of preparation, but our players are highly motivated, they have their minds on the return leg and we want them to perform at their best“, he said.

Asked if he will line up the best possible eleven, he replied: “I always start the best possible lineup, the one I think is best for each game. It always comes down to the situation each player is in, whether it comes from an injury etc. I try to put the pieces in place. I’m not saying that I always make the right decisions and don’t make mistakes. If Bergwein doesn’t play in a match, it’s not because he’s not the best player, but he might not be in the best shape».

At the same time, he announced the return of Steven Bergwein to the team and left open the possibility of him playing minutes. “All players are fine. Bergwein will be on the mission. We have to manage, because until a few days ago he was doing an individual program. But he is an important player and we want to use every possible advantage in our favour. We will have to see how many minutes he can help and how the game goes».