Real Oviedo Head Coach Cuco Ziganda today appeared in the Press Room at the Carlos Tartiere.
How is the team going into what seems a completely new season?
- We all have the same uncertainty, it's a new experience. The time available is what it is. We have to adapt to it, despite there not being much time. We are all working in the same conditions, and we will see where we are on Friday.
People always talk about 'cup finals' at this stage of the season. Given the amount of unknown factors, is there even more importance on taking it game by game?*
- It's a way of getting mentally prepared and putting the focus on the present. People always talk about each match being a 'cup final', but the points are still worth the same amount. We have to focus on going into it as well as possible and then we'll take it game by game. We are only thinking about Ponferradina.
Is it the least predictable end to a LaLiga season that you can remember?
- Yes, without a doubt. Nobody has any form, nobody is in either good or bad physical condition, we are starting from scratch. We haven't been tested and we haven't felt the reality. We don't know how we are going into it. Variables are coming up and we'll see how things are as they happen. We've never experienced this and will have to let you know.
I suppose that the first match will be very important on a psychological level, won't it?*
- It's important. We want to start, play, and wn the first match. It's going to be like a tournament in a short space of time. The mental aspect is going to be important and taking confidence from the start will be important. Points will be the best tonic.
In terms of match preparation, is the coaching staff taking the clear improvement in the Carlos Tartiere pitch into account? Could it be a key factor?
- We want to have the best conditions available to play football. We want the match to be as good as possible so that we can see a good match. We are satisfied with the state of the pitch and grateful for the work done.
A lot of teams have asked for there to be fans at their grounds. Would you be in favour of that, even though some home teams still wouldn't be allowed to do so, given that they are a stage behind in the deescalation? Do you think that it would corrupt the league season?*
- A lot of people who shouldn't be talking about this are doing so. We have to train and adapt. We are dependent upon those who make the decisions, and they are the ones who have to look out for our safety. We have to comply with the protocols. I'm not thinking about it too much, but it does hurt us that our fans can't come. I will be doubly happy when they decide that fans can come.
Do you see being allowed to make 5 changes as really being useful?
- I'm in favour, the conditions are going to be very tough. It's going to demand a physical and mental effort from us, and having the ability to rotate is important.
Does Riki not being able to participate have a big impact on your plans? Is the club going to make a request to La Liga to solve his situation?*
- Yes. The club has made a request but it's a shame. The boy is training well. It's a shame for the lad. We are awaiting an official response.
Is Saúl Berjón going to be a starter?
- All of the players who are in perfect condition are important. They are all going to be important. Saúl has some physical problems, and we'll have to see if he is able to play on Friday.
How does the team go into Friday's match?
- As well as possible given the circumstances. We don't know how we are doing because we haven't been tested yet. They want to play, they are nervous, and they are mentally prepared. When we go out onto the pitch we will see where we are. We are happy because we haven't had any setbacks, and our morale is very high.
What are you expecting from Ponferradina? Will it be similar to the match in the first half of the season?*
- The names will be similar. The core and their philosophy won't change. They are solid and compact. The atmosphere and the context has changed, but we are focusing on the game.
Do you think the return of LaLiga will be similar to in the Bundesliga?
- I hope not! Not many home teams have won there, and we need the opposite to happen. They've started with nerves and energy. It's difficult to maintain the tempo through a lot of matches, but we will see.
