Jagoba Arrasate was on pre-match media duties ahead of our trip to Athletic Club this Sunday evening. Find out what the boss had to say below:
On Dani Rodríguez and Robert Navarro: “Dani is fine. Today he was able to train normally. During the week he has had some discomfort and we will see how he is tomorrow. Robert's injury is a blow. It looks like an important injury and we are going to lose him for several weeks.”
On plans with Navarro's injury and good moment to face Athletic: “More than a change of plans, he is a player we don't have and he was in a good run of form. Now we have to think about the solutions we have. As for the match, it is true that they are coming from a very demanding game on Thursday and that next Thursday they have a final, but if they are fourth in the league it is because they know how to coexist with the league and Europe. We're not thinking about whether they're going to make changes or if they're thinking about Thursday, but rather that we'll have to play a perfect game to win there.”
On Athletic’s recent form: “The fact of conceding a goal in 90' generates anger at the moment, but I'm sure they are already thinking about tomorrow's game. They are very excited about Thursday's game, but tomorrow's game is also very important for them because anything that keeps them in fourth place is a resounding success.”
On a system of play and possible starting Samu Costa: “We evaluate everything: the possibility of playing with three central defenders, the possibility of starting Samu or Morlanes. A coach considers all the options depending on the opponent, on ourselves, on our form, on the game plan The key is to get it right before the match. We have to focus on the match that interests us.”
On Navarro’s return: “Neither before nor after the break. It's a tear. He's going to be out for several weeks. It's a blow for him and for us.”
On San Mamés: “The times I've won there I've done it suffering a lot. It is one of the most complicated places to go to and where they have a very recognisable game. They don't give you a break and then they have a great fan base. How do you win? By playing a perfect game and being more effective than the other day.”
On what to expect from Athletic: “I expect the same Athletic as always, beyond the lineup. They have a good squad and a great coach. I expect a recognizable team that will go out to win and that will push us hard.”
On Cyle Larin: “He is a very important player. It is very difficult to be regular in attacking positions. It is true that in recent matches we have found the best Asano and played with him and Muriqi, but Larin is an option we have for tomorrow because he attacks the spaces very well. He is not deactivated at all. We will need all of them and if we have the points we have it is partly thanks to him.”
On goalkeepers: “I said that I wanted to have both goalkeepers in place. Both have had the chance to show themselves and from there, I have made a decision. The cup and the midweek games are over and I understand that Greif is one point ahead and that's why he's playing more. I'm not closing my mind to anything and there may be changes.”