Al-Sadd head coach Javi Gracia addressed the media ahead of the upcoming QNB Stars League Round 15 game against Al-Shamal, and spoke about the difficulty of the clash.
“We are looking forward to the next game because we’ve not played for a long time,” said Gracia. “The players are looking forward to the game and we know in this moment our rival is playing well. They got four points in the last two games. I think they are in a good moment and we will try to perform well.”
Speaking about the difficulties faced by the team in the current period due to the Covid-19 outbreak, the coach said: “I think these times are hard for everybody – for players, for the club, and as well for many people outside. As the rest of the people, we try to be fit and to recover as soon as possible. All the players were unavailable but now we are focused on the next game.”
He added: “We know we have now many games to play but I think the spirit of the players is high and they are well-motivated. I’m sure we’ll do really well.”
Asked about his team’s readiness to return to the top of the table, Gracia said: “I told you many times I don’t look at the rankings table. I’m not worried about the position or the difference of points we have with one team or another. I think it’s better to be focused only in our work and this way I’m sure we’ll finish the season well.”
The coach concluded by saying: “I think the players have the same mentality as me and all of us, I think, are focused on the next step, in the upcoming game.”
