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González: "If we're on form, we're capable of beating anyone"
The coach looks ahead to the game against Athletic Club
Manolo González spoke ahead of RCD Espanyol's huge LaLiga Matchday 36 contest against Athletic Club, which takes place on Wednesday night, and expressed that his side have to “win tomorrow and get closer to our objective. There's nothing else to it."
The coach repeatedly emphasised that the game has extra significance at this stage of the season, pointing out that there is only one way to approach the game against the Basque team.
“We have to go out there and fight to the death, giving it our all, which is what we've been doing every matchday, although with worse results now than in the first half of the season."
"We have to give everything to win tomorrow and get closer to our objective as soon as possible. We don't want to wait until the last day of the season, and that's why we have to go out there and fight to the fullest. There's no other way. What matters is that we play well, that we don't lose touch of the game. We have to compete at the highest level, and we shouldn't care about who the opposition are.”
He insisted that he has always felt loved by the fans.
"When you don't win, it's normal for people to be unhappy, and the coach is a key figure in that regard. It's part of the job. But I'll say it again: I'm sure the team will stay in the top flight. Everything will be evaluated when the season is over. What I'm clear about is that I'm not one to cling to my position and refuse to let go. I love this club and I'll give my all for it -because the club is bigger than any individual.”
González pointed out that “I have no footballing explanation for what has happened to us. I won't jump ship if I see that we can turn things around. We've had matches where we've made mistakes, others where different situations have arisen that only happen when things aren't going well… But it's an experience for everyone, and I take responsibility, even though there have been errors on everyone's part.”
“The other day against Sevilla, the game was under control, but two avoidable mistakes condemned us. I think there have been days when football has been very cruel to us, and I can't explain it. What remains for us are difficult matches for everyone. We have to work our hardest and not look for excuses.”
Regarding the opposition, he underlined that “it will be a tough match against a team with one of the best coaches in the league. However, if we're on form, we're capable of beating anyone.”