Present at a press conference after PSG / Rennes (1-0), Parisian coach Mauricio Pochettino said little about the match in the end. Not worried by the content, he especially called for union with the supporters while the latter carried out several actions in the stands criticizing the club and the team. He also mentioned the possible participation of Neymar at PSG / Real Madrid.
Before going to a press conference, Mauricio Pochettino also appeared on the set of Amazon Prime Video L1, commenting on the game at greater length.
Several banners unfurled by supporters were very critical of the players and the management. How do you react to these messages in this very important period?
“I want to make a call for unity. The club needs a strong union between its supporters. The public has the right to express themselves but we need union in the important period of the season in which we are entering. We must fight together for our goals. Once the season is over, we will do our self-criticism and accept criticism in order to improve. This is necessary for our club to remain one of the best if not the best club in the world. »
The offensive animation of PSG seemed to be in progress against Lille (5-1), but proved to be much less impactful and consistent this evening. How to explain it?
“I think the game was different against Lille. Rennes played with a very low block, and with great tactical discipline. They played with a 4-5-1 system, with Laborde only 30 or 35 meters from their goal. Their motivation grew during the match as they held on to a result. It was difficult because we chased after this goal in the first half without managing to put it and the match continued without breaking free. We tried to correct things for the second half, without direct effect. The fact that we were still alive at the end of the game was the most important thing. »
Rennes came to defend, it’s true, but your team only managed one shot tonight. Is this a number that worries you?
“No, that doesn’t worry me. »
Throughout the month of January, you have repeated to work as much as possible with your group on these weeks comprising only one match. Do you think you will arrive in the best possible condition, especially physically?
“Yes, I think we did very well. There was a great involvement of all the players. I think we will play and be able to fight in the best way on Tuesday. »
Regarding Neymar, is it possible to get more news about him? We can see that he is training, seems well, but what does he lack to play against Madrid on Tuesday?
“You have to be careful about what you might call ‘expectations’. They sometimes do not stick to reality. Everyone creates their own expectations and that works in life too. The reality is that we follow it on a daily basis. Maybe he can be there and be part of the group. I hope so, anyway. »
Achraf Hakimi scored twice from a free kick during the disputed CAN with Morocco. Did this allow him to gain places in the hierarchy of free-kick takers at the club?
“It is clear that he is a very good option. He scored two superb CAN goals. It can also be an option, why not. »
