Interview

Patrick Vieira: “We are improving”

Patrick Vieira stopped to speak to OGCNICE.com to analyse this second test of the summer, against Sporting Portugal (0-1). Although he found things to correct, the coach felt that his squad is now getting into gear. 

Coach, what do we need to take away from this encounter with Sporting? 

The first thing is that we are improving. The players really respected the instructions. Compared to the first match, the team feels better physically and tactically. There are some really good things, but there is still work to be done. We are still losing too many balls, especially in midfield. We need to continue working, but it’s encouraging.

“Conduct a review of the squad”

With the various changes, you once again got 20 players onto the pitch on Saturday. 

The players aren’t yet ready to play 90 minutes, and we need to avoid injuries. During the upcoming matches, other players will have the chance to start. It’s important, because it allows us to conduct a review of the squad.  

The trip to Divonne is now over. What have you made of this second week with your squad? 

It was a good week which has concluded in a good way. The players are getting better and better physically, and the team was better set up than against Nyon. But there is still a lot of work to do. 

What have you got planned for next week? 

After two rest days, we will meet up on Tuesday for two sessions. We will train in the days that follow, before leaving for Belgium on Friday (3rd friendly the day after at 6pm against Charleroi, Editor’s note).