Lisci Buzzing as Osasuna Find Their Groove Before Christmas Break
Alessio Lisci praises Osasuna's aggressive pressing style after impressing against Alavés, with super-subs making the difference and goalscorers Budimir and Raúl García delivering the goods.
Lisci Buzzing as Osasuna Find Their Groove Before Christmas Break
Osasuna boss Alessio Lisci couldn’t hide his delight after watching his side deliver exactly the kind of performance he’s been craving, with the manager particularly pleased with their aggressive pressing style and the impact of his substitutes.
Super Subs Change the Game
The Italian coach was quick to highlight how the players coming off the bench completely transformed the match against Alavés. In fact, Lisci was so impressed with his reinforcements that he joked he’d have made even more changes if the rules allowed it.
“I need to praise the entire squad, including those who didn’t play because they deserve it,” Lisci explained. “But there are five substitutions – if I could have made ten, I would have done so without hesitation.”
Festive Break Comes at Wrong Time
With momentum building, the Christmas pause isn’t exactly what Lisci wanted. It’s a proper spanner in the works for Osasuna just as they’re hitting their stride and getting players back to full fitness.
However, the boss is looking at the positives, suggesting the break will allow his squad to recharge before a January that could be pivotal to their season. Lisci believes the upcoming fixtures will determine which direction their campaign heads.
Goalscoring Duo Earning Praise
Budimir and Raúl García both found the net in the victory, with Lisci expressing unwavering faith in his frontmen:
“I’m the luckiest gaffer in the world to have two forwards like them,” he beamed, comparing their goal-scoring ability to riding a bike – once learned, never forgotten.
Defensive Adjustments
With Boyomo away on international duty with Cameroon ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations, Lisci praised his remaining defensive options. He singled out Herrando for raising his game significantly in recent weeks, noting how well the backline contained Alavés striker Toni Martínez.
The Osasuna Identity Taking Shape
What pleased Lisci most was seeing his footballing philosophy come to life on the pitch. The aggressive pressing, the intensity without the ball, and – crucially – the team’s reaction after scoring.
“I’ve seen a team playing exactly how I like,” Lisci enthused, particularly satisfied that instead of dropping deep after taking the lead (as they’ve done previously), his side pushed forward and maintained pressure.
Looking Ahead to January
Lisci has his mince pies firmly set on a crucial January schedule, including a highly anticipated clash with Athletic Club. He emphasized the importance of maintaining their current form, knowing these matches could define their season.
“It’s a month that could bring us a lot of joy,” he concluded, clearly determined to keep his team’s positive momentum rolling into the new year.