Lopetegui: “We are paying a toll at the start of the season”

Julen Lopetegui looked to the future with optimism despite his team’s poor league start. The Sevilla coach emphasized the character of his players, who “didn’t hand over the spoon” and his squad is sure to improve, although he acknowledged that his biggest hit was the “lack of strength in both areas” .

“The game plan went well offensively and defensively, preventing Barcelona from taking center stage and finding situations of superiority. the of En-Nesyri it’s not offside. But if you are not forceful when you are superior and at the minimum you suffer in your area… Very few teams have the quality of Barcelona. that’s why when you’re superior you have to be assertive”, the Gipuzkoan specified in the press room at the Sánchez Pizjuán.

The Basque went on to explain his view of the game and what is wrong with Sevilla right now. “We have to improve offensively. We were able to enter the game again in the second half with a possible 1-2”.

In addition, he praised his own attitude. “The team made an extraordinary effort, they wanted to go, take risks. And I think it is useful for the future, in a complex picture and situation. We pay that toll, along with the footballers that hasn’t taken shape yet. But I want to stick with that character,” he reasoned.

Don’t criticize the planning

The coach, despite the questions, does not want to complain about the squad under his command. “This is not the time to talk about planning. It’s time to look forward. Because I believe in this team and we can build a new team. We need to capitalize on all the good things the team will continue to do. It’s about persistence, belief and looking to the next game. There were times when we were better than a good team. We need to be stronger,” he added.

Lopetegui praised the Sevilla fans, who cheered throughout the match. “The fans are already at ten, they have pressed the rival, they have pushed, they have helped, as always. We are very grateful”.