A frustrating draw. Despite opportunities galore, two from Senny Mayulu, one from Bradley Barcola on the bar, one for Fabian Ruiz, without forgetting an obvious penalty on João Neves, the Parisians remained silent this Wednesday evening in the fantastic atmosphere of San Mamés in Bilbao. Luis Enrique, the coach of the European champions, was at a press conference after the match.
Are you leaving Bilbao frustrated?
LUIS HENRY. For what ? No frustration. It was intense, different. We knew Athletic Bilbao well. We did the job well. We started well, clearly and precisely, but Bilbao pressed hard. In the second half, we overcame their pressure and Unai Simon was the man of the match. The atmosphere was incredible! The pressure from Athletic hampered us. Football is like that. It’s a bit of a shame but we’ll have to earn even more points to finish in the top 8.
How did you feel in San Mamés?
The atmosphere was incredible. It’s nice to play in this atmosphere. We showed the type of team we are. The worst thing this evening (this Wednesday) is the result. It’s a lousy result. Both teams created play and situations to score.
Will this match be useful to you for the future?
We are a team all the time in every game. After this very special start to the season, I am very motivated to get all the players back after Christmas. But I’m very happy with what I’ve seen over the last few months. As a team we are better than last season. We are positive and optimistic.
What’s wrong with Marquinhos, who came out during the break?
There’s nothing serious but we’ll have to wait until tomorrow (this Thursday) to find out what’s wrong.
What did you think of the Bradley Barcola match?
We had two or three occasions where normally there was a better placed partner. It’s normal not to see when you’re a player. The five attackers showed their level. We had a lot of chances.
Would the lack of efficiency justify recruiting in the winter transfer window?
Ah ha. The transfer window motivates you! We are open to everything. Lack of efficiency? I don’t agree. Unai Simon was voted man of the match. We would have deserved the victory if we balance the opportunities of the two teams.
How to get out of dry cleaning in the future? What will you say to your players?
I never tell you what I tell the players. Before the match, my message was about concentration. If we are not, we will take a goal. We could have lost the match but Bilbao could not maintain this pace for 90 minutes.
What did you say to Unai Simon ?
He’s really great! I started him (with Spain when Luis Enrique was the national coach). He deserves to be where he is. He is top level. I told him: You had your best match against me!
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