Fight against Real Madrid to the top! Espanyol coach: We want to play the perfect game and win the ball

Espanyol head coach Manolo Gonzalez attended the pre-match press conference against Real Madrid and talked about the team's preparations.

Is it a good time to face Real Madrid?

It's hard to say, and the situation last year was not particularly good, but we won. You have to know how to play this game.

Espanyol has not won at the Bernabeu in the past 30 years.

This shows the difficulty of the game. What made history was Christopher Columbus years ago, and I don't really believe in statistics. They are a lie, and each game is different. There is no need to talk about Real Madrid's history and the complexity of this game. Will

change the tactical system?

We will try to do something logical while taking into account the opponent's playing style. We know this is a court that must hit the opponent's penalty area, otherwise it will be difficult to get points.

This game is related to the top position of La Liga (Espanyol ranks third in La Liga with 10 points, and Real Madrid ranked first in 12 points).

We are full of motivation. We are very confident that the team is in good shape and we go to the game with the belief of winning.

Do you want a surprise or a top spot?

We hope Espanyol wins. We just want to win, not think we might be the leader. We are talking about focusing on the game itself and in order to win we have to play a perfect game.

Regarding possible referee disputes?

No, I said it a few days ago. We must give the referees a peace of mind to work. I think it's a very complicated job. The problem is that noise is made from the outside world. Some clubs seem to make us look like a "pea" next to others. People only care when two teams in La Liga are misjudged. Enough.

How do you evaluate Dolan's performance?

is very good, he adapts very well. His language is slowly improving, he can help us, and he is very young. We are very happy with his progress.

Looking back at the past, what do you think?

I must thank the person who brought me here, Fran Galagarsa. And my coaching team, I wouldn't be here without them. Thanks to everyone who allowed me to stand here.

Regarding the question of different penalties?

Inside, we strive to focus on football itself. If the decision is made by a third party, there is nothing we can do. In 38 rounds of the league, it is impossible that all the penalty will be against you. We have to focus on our own performance, which will help us focus on football.

What did you learn from the game against Real Madrid?

Each game is a learning process, and every game has its requirements. Winning in La Liga is very difficult. Last year's competition experience has no reference value for the present.

What is the key to scoring points at the Bernabeu?

Do everything very well. A personal performance may change the game. We have to work hard to create trouble for them or they will play comfortably. If you play imperfectly, it will be difficult to score points in Madrid.

Is there a replacement for Pere Milia?

There are many players who can play now. Fortunately, the sports management department has done a good job.

About the change in the team's mentality?

We must work hard to do this. Day after day, the message has been conveyed from within. That is to be a winner. Then the opponent will let you recognize your position.

Is this the team you imagined?

We still have some improvements, but we started last year and many players stayed. This is very helpful. Continuity is very important in this regard because we know each other. The tactical work is well-versed. The team still has room for improvement.

What do you desire to do in the Bernabeu...

I hope to win, not for me, but for the club. What I want is team improvement, and if we can win tomorrow, that would be perfect. Especially for the fans, they have endured too much. What are the positive aspects that need to be strengthened?

The team is confident and in good shape. It is very clear about its playing style and who we are.

Are you calm about the future?

(if there are 30 points now) There are 30 points left, but we have 10 points now...Imagine what would have happened if we only had 1 point now. We have become accustomed to playing under this stress for a short time, and when I have to leave, I am already immune to stress. What is the atmosphere of the

locker room?

They are very calm, the keyword is calm. They have confidence in themselves, which is the most important thing.

Is it enough to just believe that you can win?

It would be great if it was that simple...it was not just a matter of belief. You have to do a lot of things well. Run more, work harder, and be at a level when there is a ball. There are many things. There are some things in life that not everyone can do.

How is Edu-Esposito's physical condition?

In principle, he is fine, and Harvey (Puado) is also on the big list.

How do you evaluate the current Real Madrid team?

It is very complicated to fight against Real Madrid. They have more set pieces and higher pressing intensity than in previous years. Their offense and defense conversion is very good, which they have always had. We will try to get them to play a tough game.

Will players enjoy the game when they go to the Bernabeu?

If we play to our level, we will enjoy the game in a different way. Sometimes you can enjoy it while defending, fighting, fighting back, keeping pace… there will be moments of enjoyment in the game.

How do you view the huge salary differences between the two teams?

has improved compared to last year. I hope the team can improve these aspects. The gap is reality. What attitude should the team take to step on the Bernabeu and be themselves. I ask them to play and give all of it so that even if you lose, you can go home proudly. We can be better or worse, more likable or less likable, but this team is going all out every day.