China Super League (soccer league)
Wind and clouds rise again, Round 15 Spotlight Battle: Beijing
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to face the Guangzhou team. Pre-match.
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Head coach Bilic attended the press conference.
Bilic opened with the words, "Good evening everyone, after a long preparation period we are about to embark on a brand new challenge. The whole team is looking forward to our league debut. The opponents are strong and even with good preparation, the first game is still a challenge. But our preparation has been very effective and every player has given their best. Now that the international players are back and in good shape, we are confident about tomorrow's game."
Talking about the arrangements for the internationals, Bilic revealed, "We will try to find a balance. At this stage, we have eight games. Of course, tomorrow's game is crucial for the whole season. The internationals do need a rest, but unfortunately we can't give them more time. I would like to take this opportunity to praise my players for their efforts on the field and their willpower off it."
Talking about the challenges faced by the team, Bilic said fondly, "Obviously, every team in the Super League has been affected in some way, and the impact on our team has been particularly significant. We have had only one foreign player for the entire season. This requires our local players to step up and take more responsibility. It has been a tough year for the internationals being away from their families and playing in a closed environment, but they have shown great professionalism."
"In addition, I would like to commend the players for the professionalism they have shown despite the team's financial difficulties.
The whole club, including our owners, are trying to resolve the difficulties encountered.
Everyone is trying to make the best of a difficult situation and it was very touching to see our whole team come together to overcome the difficulties and I give them the highest respect. Now, all we have to do is play every game."
For the new foreign aid Anderson, Bilic is also full of expectations: "Anderson is an excellent player, he has been practicing with the team for a month. He is always energetic and eager to prove himself in the game. He and the internationals exceeded my expectations in our latest teaching match. Of course, as a new recruit, he still needs time to adapt, but we are satisfied with his performance so far."
Captain Yu Dabao said at the conference, "I think we've all faced certain difficulties in the past two years due to the epidemic. We have been having closed competitions and life, and although we are a little bit tired, I think everyone will give their best as long as we get to the field. Coming back to the club and seeing everyone, the internationals are very happy and uplifted. We will definitely do our best to play every competition."
