Five successes in five Ligue 1 games: Mauricio Pochettino had something to be satisfied with after his team’s success against Clermont (4-0), especially four days before the start of the Champions League, Wednesday night, in Bruges.
How do you view this result?
MAURICIO POCHETTINO. I’m happy, it was a difficult game a priori. Against a team that plays football well and was in a good dynamic. I am happy that the players who did not go to the selection during the break have responded. I am very happy with the work of the team.
The tenure of Donnarumma was to prepare the C1 or to let Navas rest?
I am very satisfied with his performance for his first match and as I said before: we have a squad of 35 players and decisions will be made in relation to the competitions and each time.
How are the South Americans (Messi, Neymar, Di Maria, Paredes) back on Friday?
They arrived late. And trained today. They are tired of the games and the jet lag but have no physical problems. And I’m glad they’re here to prepare for the next game.
How does Mbappé see the whistles at the Park, as was the case again this Saturday before the match?
At first I didn’t hear that. If there was, I did not hear. I heard a big ovation when he went for a corner. Kylian is a great professional and a great boy. He works and is focused on improving himself and helping the team. He shows enormous respect for this club every day.
The midfielders have already scored 5 goals since the start of the season, is that a will?
It is important that to achieve our goals it is not only the attackers who score. It brings options.
Is Hakimi the best right-back in the world?
I’m happy with what he’s doing. Is Hakimi the best in the world? He is one of the best. He is a young player with great potential. He still has things to improve but we will work to bring him to his maximum.
Does his connection with Mbappé work in training?
Everyone will draw their conclusions but it is both worked and natural.
Gueye has scored two goals and looks more and more confident. Is that the case ?
He is an important player for us in the balance he gives the team and now because he can actually score goals. He makes a lot of effort. He was not with us for the Champions Trophy because of the Covid-19. What he’s been doing in recent weeks is very good.
Is this a perfect start to the season and does it bode well ahead of the Champions League?
Yes, I think it’s very good for the team and the confidence. Winning always gives confidence, peace. It also gives time for the new ones to integrate even better.
