They only had 4 days to train together, but the Red Devils started the Tedesco era strongly. “I think we played well,” De Bruyne agreed.
“In the first fifteen minutes it may have been a bit of a search, but I think we were compact defensively, gave little away to the Swedes and had enough chances.”
“In the second half there was a moment when we could have kept the peace a little more. We know we can do better, but to play like this as a team after 4 days is very positive.”
“It was a bit of a search with a lot of new guys, but we didn’t make many mistakes. It’s the start of a new process and the guys can be proud.”
What had the national coach actually asked his basic team? “Stay compact defensively and press together as a team at the right times”, De Bruyne revealed.
“On the right we knew that with Dodi Lukebakio and Johan Bakayoko we could exploit the 1-on-1 situation and we did. And with Romelu we know that he will always score if we play to his strengths.”
“Everything can be better, but we can build on this. In the end, we try to do our best. This gives confidence to the young lads, who were waiting for an opportunity and took it today.”
Amadou Onana also spoke of a match that gave “confidence”. “We have quickly adapted to a new system and a new coach. That is mentally good,” said the Everton midfielder.
“We have done a lot well, but there is also a lot to improve on. We can base ourselves on this for the future. It was a good debut for the new Devils.”
“How did it feel to play with De Bruyne? It’s a pleasure. His level is great. He also communicates a lot and also tells us where we should be.”
