Villarreal coach, Íñigo Pérez, has made it clear that the mental factor will be decisive in the Champions League duel against Naples that will be played tomorrow. In an interview with the press, Pérez stressed that the key to moving forward will be to prevent anxiety from manifesting itself on the field, preferring that the team make tactical errors rather than lose concentration.
Pérez recalled the problems that Villarreal has had in some home games and asked that the doubts that have marked previous games not be repeated. “If there is one thing we have to be clear about, it is that anxiety should not appear,” he stated, adding that solid physical performance and good energy will be essential to overcome the rival. The coach highlighted that, although possible changes are contemplated in the starting eleven, any lineup that comes out at the start of the match can lead to victory.
The coach also emphasized the need to add the first points of the competition after the defeat against Borussia Dortmund. “We must not confuse excitement with urgency,” he explained, pointing out that the pressure of the first day should not become a negative factor. Pérez described Naples as a team that can exploit Villarreal's offensive transitions and asked his players to focus on tactics and not nervousness.
Regarding physical preparation, Pérez recalled that the afternoon training is crucial to listen to the players and guarantee the necessary energy. “The body asks for tactics, but we also need to listen to the players,” he said. Likewise, he praised the career of the Naples coach and his tactical ability, although he warned that the rival team has a very effective offensive transition that can cause problems.
Finally, the coach addressed the situation of Nicolás Pépé, who does not suffer a football injury, and the recovery that is expected to be brief, although it will depend on the player's evolution. He also mentioned the alternatives for the left wing, indicating that the decision will be made based on the circumstances and who can play there. He concluded that Villarreal has been winning, drawing or losing depending on the precision in the areas, and that the change in cycle will not be an excuse for performance.