Manuel Pellegrini, the Chilean manager, expressed confidence as his team approaches what he describes as crucial matches ahead. “The team is in good spirits and form. A while back, results weren’t in our favor, but we managed to stay in this competition. Now the path to potentially winning a title is becoming clearer, and tomorrow the team will step onto the pitch with the mindset of winning. Vitoria has plenty of strengths, coming off solid results, and we must deliver a comprehensive performance,” Pellegrini stated.
He emphasized the difference between group stages and knockout rounds. “I’ve always said, finishing first or third in the group makes no difference as long as you qualify. It was better to skip the round of 32. Points lost in LaLiga cannot be regained. We qualified, and now we are in the same position as if we had finished first or last. Now it feels like finals, and we must play complete games.”
Pellegrini added that in football, favorites are not always clear-cut. “There are often unexpected results in matches. We have to approach tomorrow with the conviction to play a complete match. If we demonstrate that we are better than Vitoria both here and there, we will continue in the Conference League to take the next step.”Regarding Vitoria, he noted, “They finished second in their group and recently changed their coach. If we prove we are superior to Vitoria at home and away, we will advance in the Conference to pursue our next goal.”On the injury front, Pellegrini updated on Gio Lo Celso, saying, “He is currently in recovery with the physiotherapists and has not yet integrated with the first team. With the FIFA break coming in just over a week, it seems unlikely he will rejoin the squad before that time.”He expressed optimism about Ángel Ortiz: “He has shown his capabilities with the first team, performing at a high level. He is recovering from his injury and needs to return to the reserve team to regain fitness. Bellerín, Sabaly, and Aitor are recovered, but it’s best for him to continue with the reserves for now.”When asked about Isco, Pellegrini commented, “I see him in a good place right now, with a maturity that allows him to consistently perform at a high level. I am very pleased he has regained his best form; hopefully, the national selector recognizes his talent. That, of course, is up to the coach of the national team.”
Lastly, Bakambu shared his thoughts on his current season, admitting, “This has not been an easy season for me, but I feel better and am striving to improve further to help my teammates and our team achieve our goals.”
