Quique Setién has appeared at a press conference in the preview of the Champions League quarterfinals against Bayernfrom Munich. The Cantabrian coach knows the importance of the duel, especially after the failure in the League and the elimination in the Cup. Among other things, he did not want to enter into the criticism of his team from Germany and was confident of achieving the pass to the semifinals.
How do they get to this game, what plan do you have with Dembélé?
We arrived well. It is the game we look forward to after winning Napoli. It is a satisfaction that Dembélé has been able to be on the list and, obviously, he will be in a position to participate. He has not been able to participate for almost a year, but we have the illusion that he can do it well.
Do you have the feeling that the team is going to show its level tomorrow?
We know the potential of the rival, we are not going to minimize it. Not only the numbers, but the capacity it has, shows that it is a potentially extraordinary team. But we are too. It will be an even game, there will be alternatives. We have many things to say in this game.
Is mastering possession an essential condition to win?
It is important to have the ball because that will allow us to defend ourselves for longer with it. Bayern's offensive potential is high and it is obvious that if you have the ball they don't have it. That will depend on the success. If we can have the ball they will do us less damage.
There is an atmosphere around Bayern painting the Bavarian team as favorites. All these statements will make Barça come out more motivated.
Motivation is intrinsic. You are going to play a very important match against a great rival and it is going to be a disputed match. One thing is what is said outside, and another on the field of play. It is a contested and even game, that's how I see it.
Can the psychological element make a difference?
Soccer has many aspects and many paradoxes.
Have you considered sacrificing a forward to play with four midfielders?
The reality is that we have considered many things, but until tomorrow we will not be able to see it. We may think that drawing is important but perhaps it cannot be so important. We are clear about the talent that Bayern has and surely when they have the ball we will have to defend, but in the meantime we will have to have the ball.
Are you worried about the rhythm of the game that Bayern imposes?
We are concerned with many things. It is a complete team. Able to attack, defend, incorporates many people in attack, press well. But we know that. It remains to be seen if we can get out of the pressure. But if we have something good, it is to get out of pressure. Sometimes it is more effective, sometimes less. But they know that if we get out of the pressure, they can be hurt. There will be alternatives, we will have to defend and attack. But it will be even.
Is Lewandowski better than Messi, are you worried about his definition?
He is a great footballer but he is not up to Leo. That's clear. He is in a great moment and has thirteen goals in the Champions League. It is well attended. He's in a great moment, but so is Leo. It is good that these footballers are on the field.
You who declare yourself a convinced Cruyffista, Cruyff said that this match was won by the sacred cows. Does Messi have to win this game tomorrow?
Leo Messi can help win the game, but I have always believed in the strength of the team. You have to assist Messi and put the ball on him. He is capable of manufacturing goals, but without the strength of the team, Leo would be less.