"When you play against teams like Benfica, you're not just facing an opponent, but a piece of football history, an identity. It's a team that has what it takes to play against anyone. Even when they lost, the matches were difficult for their opponents, they were tough. They have important qualities, they keep the ball on the ground and play at a very high tempo. They make the pitch very busy, leaving the full-backs free to attack.
Portuguese football is offensive and proactive. It's an important challenge for us and for them, it's a direct confrontation and I expect Benfica to be aggressive and come out to play their game. They will be forced to impose their identity on the match and I am convinced that it will be an interesting game. Portuguese teams draw you into their rhythm, and if you're not careful, you end up in it, and by the time you realise, it's too late. I expect our players to be ready. We'll have to be careful from the start to the end of the match.
We are looking for consistency because every player has their own characteristics, and it is essential to see how they work together as a whole. We are exploring new concepts that will help us achieve a superior identity that will allow us to impress those who see us play.
We are on the right track because the team is curious and constantly looking for new ideas. I always say that you have to improve your skills to score goals, to have the next pass already in mind before you receive the ball."