With the excitement of returning to play at the Akron Stadium, Veljko Paunovic showed confidence in the work that the team has done and in the mentality that the group continues to have in the Apertura 2023.
In addition, the red-and-white coach spoke about Erick Gutiérrez's situation, so if you want to know what he had to say, here are some quotes from the Press Conference prior to Day 2 between Chivas and Atlético San Luis:
"After losing the final we haven’t stopped, nobody relaxes and we will continue with the same mentality that will enable us to be champions."
"The tournament comes together with the Leagues Cup, so we will go game by game knowing that we have a chance to compete at the highest level".
"Nothing changes, there is more confidence and determination because we want to play in a Final again".
"We will take it one game at a time, we have a very talented team capable of standing up to anyone".
"Alexis Vega is evolving very well, he is in the last phase of recovery and maybe he will be ready in 1 or 2 weeks".
"Vega is aware that today more than ever he must be in his best physical shape to prevent any complications".
"I don't look at a player's expiration date, I look at what he can contribute and his competitive maturity."
"The 3 who have made their debuts have shown us good things since last tournament, each one in their respective teams."
"A veteran player, as long as he contributes what we ask of him, will always be considered".
"The continuity of the young players will depend on their contribution and evolution over time".
"If a reinforcement comes, I want him to be an impact player, to make a difference. I call him player 20, 20 goals between goals and assists, although with such a short tournament it is complicated."
"We want to keep Chivas at the top, compete and be a team that leads the championship."
"If Chivas does well and we are competitive, the players will be considered for the National Team in the short, medium and long term."
About Erik Gutiérrez:
"Erick Gutiérrez's transfer has not arrived, so he will not be available against Atlético San Luis."
"We must improve his physical shape because he was on pause for a long time, we are sure that very soon he will be ready to meet the demands required by our game model."
"Erick will help us a lot with the ball, mainly in coming out from the back. His composure and quality will give us a lot".
"We will look for Gutiérrez to be a finisher, I know he knows how to finish and that will add a lot to our game.
"He is very noble, has a lot of experience and is always willing to work. His leadership will be valuable for the group.
"We view him as a very important player for Chivas".
