The coach of Olympiacos, Míchel, expressed his satisfaction with the team’s performance and match score against Asteras Tripolis (5-0).
After the end of the game, the Spanish coach of the “red-and-whites” spoke at the press conference and highlighted the team’s good performance at “G. Karaiskakis” during the last match of 2022:
At the beginning of the month, there was a feeling that the team would lean towards wingers; after watching the team with James, Fortounis, and Biel, is there a change in this plan?
Let’s start with the game’s general image. We’re at a good level with fit footballers; we want our quality players to give their all at a high level. These are the same footballers who played at the previous game, when we led by 2-0 and were tied because our attitude was at fault during that match. Games like today’s are the ones that make us appreciate our fitness and quality. What I’m certain of is that Olympiacos needs to have a competitive roster, and no one should feel secure. For example, all the substitutions made today were very helpful and this should be a warning that anyone can acquire a spot in the team. There are many who would like a different line-up, but there should always be competition, just like today.
Regarding the score in Giannena, was it the coach’s fault? And was today’s success owed to the players?
This has always been the truth. The coach is always responsible for every unfortunate event or score the team experiences and the players are to be praised for every success. There’s nothing more I can say when James, Biel, and Masouras score in such ways; they are responsible for what happens. I’m not fond of giving any advice other than looking at yourself in the mirror when something’s wrong and recognise when you’re at fault. I agree with you, the coach was responsible last week, whilst today’s success is owed to the players. I never get angry, because I honestly feel that I get justice every time someone accuses the coach for something bad that happens, and then next week they don’t get their own back.
We have seen two different sides of Olympiacos since the match at Giannena and in comparison to today’s match. Does this change your plans for transfers?
Not at all. The plan will remain as is. We need to perform better constantly and to improve, because we are at a crucial stage in the championship. In order for this to happen, there needs to be competition between the players. I talk with everyone every week; the president, the sports director, Avraam, and we all agree that the plan will not change and that the team needs reinforcement in order for the competition to be high. When the results are not what we’re aiming for, each and every one of us is at risk. This is why we’re trying to make sure that this doesn’t happen.
