Al Ain plays tomorrow’s match as a representative of the UAE in the AFC Champions League.. Crespo: I look forward to writing a new history in my coaching career with the Boss of Emirati clubs
I didn’t put the schedule, but I’m solely responsible for preparing my team for all challenges
I don’t think in terms of friendly or official matchs, but I focus on the importance of showing a sense of responsibility in defending our badge
Al Ain Argentine head coach Hernan Crespo, emphasized that he doesn’t have enough time to prepare the team for tomorrow’s match against Uzbekistan’s Pakhtakor. However, he stated that his team has efficient players, some of whom haven’t had the opportunity to participate as starters in the AFC Champions League. Therefore, he believes that it’s a great opportunity for them to demonstrate their true capabilities.
When asked about the team’s status as they’re fighting on multiple fronts under pressurized schedule, he said, “I haven’t specifically set the schedule, but I’m primarily responsible for setting up a mechanism to prepare the team for all challenges. Personally, I’m very happy that Al Ain has qualified for the Round of 16 in one of the strongest Asian tournaments and I’m currently trying to understand the players better.”
“Actually, I don’t think much about the details of categorizing the matches, whether local, Asian, or friendly. I’m more concerned with the importance of showing a sense of responsibility whenever anyone has the chance to defend the badge of a great club like Al Ain, whether it’s a match in the League, AFC competition, or a friendly match,” he continued.
He added, “Tomorrow, we will face a strong team and, as I said, we will provide opportunities for new players. Personally, I focus on strong performance and output because it always leads to positive results. Everyone is well-aware that Al Ain represents the UAE in one of the most important club competitions in Asia.”
Regarding the AFC Champions League official account welcoming his return to the tournament, he said, “first of all, l’d like to express my gratitude and appreciation to Al Ain Club management for their trust in me. It is certain that I’m very proud to belong to this great club, especially since I have good memories of my first visit here during the FIFA Club World Cup when Al Ain impressed the world and finished as runners-up in 2018.”
“I remember participating in the AFC Champions League with Al Duhail, and I was happy to reach the semifinals in this continental competition with my previous team. However, today I’m with Al Ain, and I look forward to writing a new history in my coaching career with the Boss of the Emirati clubs,” he continued.
