Marcelino Reflects on Hard-Fought Victory and Team Dynamics

omidbasir- Marcelino praised his team’s victory, noting that it was expected to be hard-fought, especially considering that even the top teams in La Liga are experiencing difficulties in securing wins. He expressed regret over missed opportunities that could have sealed the match earlier, which ultimately led to a tense finish.

On the importance of the victory, he stated: “It is always crucial to win after a loss. We knew we were coming to a ground where the opponent had a lot at stake. Moreover, winning away from home in the final stretch of the competition is very challenging. I only sensed doubts towards the end when the opponents resorted to long balls and second chances. We lacked decisiveness in some situations following turnovers. We also had opportunities to secure the win and failed to do so. When that happens and you’re leading 0-1 away from home, it is normal to suffer in the end. We are very pleased with the victory and satisfied that, after many matches, we kept a clean sheet, which strengthens the team, especially the defense.”

Regarding feelings of calmness, he remarked: “I prefer not to speak of calmness as it may lead to overconfidence. We should not focus on what others do, but rather on our own actions. After 24 matches, we sit third with 48 points, indicating we are performing well. It is natural to experience ups and downs as we have been heavily challenged in two competitions. We have accumulated fewer points in the Champions League than expected and more in the league than anticipated. Now we must concentrate on ourselves as we approach the final stages.”

When asked why winning is so difficult, Marcelino replied: “Winning is challenging for everyone. If it is hard for Barcelona, Real Madrid, or Atlético Madrid, it is equally difficult for the rest. Many teams are involved in the fight to avoid relegation, which heightens competition. Every point is crucial as the number of matches dwindles.”

On the substitution of Rafa Marín and the inclusion of Pau Navarro, he explained: “Rafa requested to be substituted due to an ankle sprain. He held on as long as he could, and we will assess his condition for the next match. He had a great game. Regarding Navarro, we aim to field players who perform best. Younger players can be inconsistent due to their age, but we are very pleased with him. If we concede fewer goals, as we did in the first half of the season, that significantly aids in accumulating points.”

Discussing his halftime message to the team, he said: “I reminded them of the playing criteria from the outset. We struggled to press when the opponent played from the back, which created openings for us. In a medium block, we allowed nothing. Offensively, we had chances to take the lead. In the second half, the game opened up as the opponents needed to win. The pitch was very dry, complicating ball circulation. Nonetheless, we are satisfied with our performance.”

On Thomas Partey’s situation, he commented: “He is an excellent player and person. His morale is good. He was recovering from a minor injury and performed well today, contributing to the team. He has experience, composure, and spatial awareness. If he is physically fit, he can be very significant in the concluding phase of the season.”

Lastly, regarding Mikautadze, Marcelino stated: “I see him improving, not just because of his goals. He is more engaged, understands the team’s mechanics better, coordinates well with his teammates, and is sharper mentally. For a striker, scoring is a significant boost. However, what truly matters is the collective performance and ensuring that the team functions effectively.”