Martín Demichelis spoke to the media in his first pre-match press conference at RCD Mallorca. Find out what he had to say ahead of our trip to CA Osasuna.
On the first week: “Throughout the week, I realised that this is a very receptive group that is aware of the situation. They are eager and open to a new coaching staff with new ideas and concepts as we travel to Pamplona in search of what we need, which is points.”
On the starting XI: "I won't reveal the lineup before telling the players. When I analyse an opponent and there are patterns and concepts that repeat themselves, without saying that they are predictable, there are things that repeat themselves. When I come up against an unpredictable team, it's more difficult for me to tell my players how the game might go. And we're not going to invent much in five days either. There's a formation they've used a lot, 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1, which I really like. We'll probably go with that, regardless of who plays or the concepts we want to use on the field."
On the squad: “I was surprised by the group. I don't like to talk about individuals. I said at the presentation that I was very happy to be here, and now I'm even happier because I'm getting to know the group better. From what I saw on TV and on the computer, I was convinced that they had what it takes, and now I can assure you that they do. Hopefully we can have everyone back as soon as possible because that will increase internal competitiveness and make us better.”
On speaking individually with players: "I've spoken with some more than others, but that doesn't mean I have more affection for them. My job is to try to make everyone better. I know Maffeo from City, and I know Darder from Málaga, even though it's been a while. You have to talk to the captain and 'El Pichu'; they're institutions within the team. But my affection and respect are for everyone. They're good lads. The sooner we get to know each other, the more I'll be able to help them."
On the match against Osasuna: "We've analysed Osasuna a lot, and what I say here doesn't really matter. Osasuna is always trying to trick you, and they're a very strong team at home. I'm much more concerned with what we'll be like tomorrow. We emphasized that a lot. We have to pay attention to the opponent, of course, but we focused on what we want to do with and without the ball: when building attacks, finishing, winning possession, defending..."
On improving the defence: "Starting with the fact that our defenders must understand that they are defenders, and when it comes to defending, they have to defend. Anything they can contribute going forward will be welcome. But defending isn't just about the final third of the pitch; defending is a team effort. When we don't have the ball, we're all defenders. I want a team that wants to win it back, that wants to be compact, that has spirit because many times, if there's no heart, soul, or legs, it doesn't matter what system you use to win it back. I expect to see a team that, at least emotionally, goes out onto the pitch to fight. And I'm almost certain that's how it's going to be."
On achieving the objective: "In my experience as a coach, I analyze each day what we can do better for the next match and the opponent. I'm not here to please anyone, but to achieve our objectives. My only intention is to get points, nothing more."
On clean sheets: "From here on out, a 12-match tournament begins. 36 points are at stake, which is a lot. We start tomorrow with a clean sheet, and hopefully, after 90 minutes, we'll finish with a clean sheet."
On his coaching staff: "We've divided ourselves up in the best way possible so we can all help each other. When a new coaching staff arrives and there's little time to work, it takes a while to get to know everyone. I've gotten closer to most of them; I owe them all a few talks, but the most important thing is the players, and I've tried to be as close to them as possible. I respect everyone. There's a feeling of being together, united, and like a family, and little by little we'll get to know each other better."
On the keys to better defending: "You learn from every coach I've had, and then you have to define your own methodology. My principles for defending are very clear, and they'll start to become apparent tomorrow, regardless of the system. I want my players to have a very clear understanding of how to defend in every part of the field."
On fans: "The stadium is renovated and beautiful. I loved watching the match from the stands and feeling how the fans experience it. Am I worried about the atmosphere? No, but I do ask that we stay united until the end. It's the only way. We need their support. I have no doubt that those who come will come believing and being positive. And then we'll see in matchday 38. The final stretch is still to come, and every point is important. When there's synergy, everything is easier."
On player morale: "The players' morale was exactly as I like it to be. That they're focused, that they receive the ball well. I sensed empathy from both sides, and they worked hard. Now we just need to go out and play, and whoever starts needs to do so with the responsibility the situation demands, but also with the enjoyment this sport needs to be fun. I don't know any other way to succeed."
On player freedom: "On the pitch, footballers must have the freedom to make decisions: where to pass, how to control the ball... Football is full of technical errors, but the reaction after a mistake depends on me and the coaching staff. Whether they train a certain way, are disciplined, and want to win... that also depends on the coach. Whether the shot hits the post, goes in, or goes out, that's football. But there are many things we can control. The players are the main protagonists. We help them, yes, but then they go out and play, and the final decisions are theirs, despite all the training we do."