“Where are Guillermo Maripan and Gelson Martins, who were absent last week?
I can’t say anything definite about them, but it’s going to be hard to get both ready for the match. we will see tomorrow (Thursday) after training. They did not train with the group, but individually. For “Mari” I have big doubts. Gelson, it’s muscle discomfort (adductors)† We have to see how it develops.
How would you rate Kevin Volland’s evolution coming out of a complicated period?
I know he had pain in his ankle since August. When I saw him move the last matches and the last training sessions, it was different from the previous three months. He was given an infiltration during the truce to take his pain away and that set him free. I hope it stays that way until the end of the season. Being in good shape can change a lot for the team as he can still be dangerous.
Kevin Volland scored in his last two appearances in Ligue 1, his first two goals in the championship in 2022. (F. Porcu/L’Équipe)
You organized a team building campaign last week, with paintball and a barbecue on the program. Did you feel the group needed it?
Having connections between players is very important. The more things you do together on the field, the more you will do together on the field. Several players said that the group missed things like this, to do activities together outside of training. It wasn’t just with the players, it was with all the people who work at La Turbie. I saw a lot of enthusiasm in everyone.
“Here I don’t want us to feel like we’re coming to work in a factory, I want to start a family where we do special things”
If you feel good in your work environment, it gives something more to the field. I have other ideas for the coming months. It is important. Hard work is the most important. But you also have to do fun things in your work environment. Here I don’t want us to feel like we’re coming to work in a factory, I want to raise a family where we do special things.
Do you think you can still overtake Rennes and Marseille to finish on the podium?
You already know what I’m going to say (smile)† Everything is still possible. Except being champion given the points behind PSG (21 points, seven days from the end)† But all other things are still possible, including the Champions League. And not just for us.
Do you see this good series (4 wins in 5 days) as a personal revenge after the criticism you have received at your work?
No. With social networks and all the analysts out there, we live in a world where there are many opinions. This is how it is, this is our life. I know what we do with the players here. I truly believe that if there is time to work with a band, you can do great things. I was convinced of this two months ago. If you do it really well every day, the results will always follow. †
