Marcelino: “We’re optimistic because we can still improve”

Athletic Club manager Marcelino García Toral said the Lions are on an upward curve and he believes the side can keep getting better as the season goes on.

Los Rojiblancos have picked up 17 points from their first 10 matches and take on Basque rivals Real Sociedad in San Sebastian on Sunday night (21:00 CET).

“The statistics tell me we’re doing well,” Marcelino said at his pre-match press conference on Saturday afternoon. “Most would agree that we have fewer points than we deserve. We’re all satisfied and optimistic because we still have room for improvement.”

The coach said his players “must know how to manage the Derby” and the most important thing was to keep putting points on the table.

“We’re approaching it like any other match. They’re one of the 19 opponents we have in the competition,” Marcelino added. “It’s true there’s an added emotional component, especially for the players, and we must know how to manage that. 

“I’m looking forward to experiencing it. We’re going to have the chance to see a real derby, because last year without a crowd it was a bit dull. It will be nice to experience this spectacle with a full stadium. We’re privileged.”

Real Sociedad go into the weekend top of the league, albeit having played one fixture more, and Marcelino said they were a team with a lot of options and variety.

“La Real is a good team, led by a great coach,” he said. “They’re competitive and strong in defence.

“They play well from the back without taking as many risks as in previous years, they are direct and play with a lot variety in attack. This gives them grounds to be competitive in different situations.

“In derbies, the games are a bit tighter and, seeing their numbers so far, I’d be surprised if there were many goals in the match. Whoever gets it right will take all three points.”