Monaco boss Pocognoli stands firm: 'Real Madrid won't change our playing philosophy'
AS Monaco manager Sébastien Pocognoli insists his side will stick to their principles at the Bernabéu despite recent poor form, with ex-PSG defender Kehrer ready for Mbappé reunion.
Monaco manager refuses to abandon attacking approach ahead of daunting Champions League visit to the European champions.
Defiant in the face of pressure
AS Monaco boss Sébastien Pocognoli has made it crystal clear that his side won’t be parking the bus when they visit Real Madrid in Tuesday night’s Champions League clash at the Santiago Bernabéu.
Despite Monaco’s recent dodgy form, Pocognoli was adamant about sticking to their guns: “Madrid will play at home and will want to control the game. But that won’t change our playing philosophy.”
The Belgian gaffer’s having none of that defensive nonsense, even if results haven’t been going their way lately. Talk about having some serious bottle!
“Although results aren’t coming, I’ve never said we’re going to come out to defend,” he added. “I’ll stay faithful to Monaco’s philosophy. We need to be very good without the ball, but we won’t give up our style.”
Pressure? What pressure?
Pocognoli knows the score when it comes to the hot seat at Monaco:
- “I accept the pressure, it’s not a problem, it’s my job”
- “I’m here to protect my players so they can play freely tomorrow”
- “Our dynamic in Europe is different”
The gaffer opted to train at the Bernabéu on Monday rather than back home, explaining: “It’s better to train here if possible, to adapt better and get a feel for the pitch.”
Before discussing football matters, Pocognoli also expressed condolences for the victims of Sunday’s tragic train accident in Adamuz, Spain.
Kehrer ready for Mbappé reunion
Defender Thilo Kehrer, who shared the dressing room with Kylian Mbappé at PSG, joined his coach at the press conference and offered insights on how to handle his former teammate:
“We need to reduce the spaces, both for Kylian and his teammates. We’ll need to be very attentive and focused.”
The German defender had nothing but praise for Mbappé’s development: “He progresses every year, he’s a more mature player. Playing for Madrid has also changed him, perhaps in terms of pressure. He’s a world-class player.”
Despite their inconsistent form, Kehrer remains positive about Monaco’s chances: “We’ve shown up against big rivals, which proves the potential and quality is there.”