Clement dispatched ‘mentally favourites’ Monegasques ahead of Champions League second leg
Monaco coach Philippe Clement sent himself “mentally preferred” and assures that “confidence is there” for his team, opposed Tuesday evening to the Netherlands at PSV Eindhoven, in the second leg of the 3rd preliminary round of the Champions League (1 -1 one way).
A little pressure on the opponent? A real confidence in his men? This Monday in front of the press, Monaco coach Philippe Clement said he felt “mentally preferred” and assured that “confidence is there” for his team, opposed Tuesday evening to the Netherlands at PSV Eindhoven (8:30 p.m.), in match return from the 3rd preliminary round of the Champions League (1-1 in the first leg).
“The confidence is there, explained the Monegasque technician. On the other hand, we will have to be realistic against this good PSV, which has a significant offensive force. We are aware of our qualities. The players have worked hard in recent months to be ready. More and more players are. We saw it against Strasbourg (2-1).
“I’m sure we’re stronger physically. But we have to show it on the pitch”
Clement also tried to shake off the nervousness ahead of a potentially pivotal game for the rest of the season. “I always think of the positive scenario, he assured. But if this is not the case, it does not change anything. There are still a lot of matches in the league, and a very interesting European Cup to play. Naturally, we is very, very, very determined. But in a final you can be better and lose due to bad luck. We have the quality, the determination and the physicality and the players always want to play. I like having a hard time doing my crew.”
And to therefore evoke this status of favorite of the ASM according to him: “For me, mentally, we are favorites. I am sure that we are stronger physically. But we have to show it on the ground. Even if they have the advantage of playing at home, we want to show that we are the better team in two games.”
A second match that the technician prepared this weekend by carrying out a substantial turnover in the league. “You absolutely need rotation, he justifies. There are so many matches that it’s impossible for a player to play everything. This season, the schedule is even tighter. We have to set up a group where everyone is ready. Against PSV and Strasbourg, 18 players took part. Currently, I am satisfied with the behavior of all. It is crucial to have a good season. Otherwise, it is impossible to have ambitions in three competitions. Or , Monaco has these ambitions.”