Javier Saviola has explained Malaga Coach Manuel Pellegrini’s approach to football at the club, as well as reflected on the club’s run this term in Europe.
Malaga are enjoying a strong season under Pellegrini and, according to summer signing Saviola, it is down to the philosophy employed by the Coach.
“He likes good football and players who can handle the ball well,” the 31-year-old striker told UEFA’s official website this week.
“He is a Coach who wants good football to prevail over anything else.
“In modern football, where sometimes the physical and tactical aspects of the game are given priority, it is good to have a Coach who tries to play attractive football.”
The Argentine reflected on Malaga’s accomplishment so far of having reached the Last 16 of the Champions League, where they will face Porto.
“It makes the team proud because, without a doubt, this is one of the biggest things that has happened in the club's history.
“For the fans it is marvellous because they've never been here with the team.
“The fans are experiencing it in a special way, together with the team. The team also responds to the supporters, these things go hand in hand.
“For us, it is very important that the people continue to support us.”
Saviola was asked how far he feels the team can go in Europe this season, but declined to look beyond the two legs with their Portuguese opponents.
“The important thing in the Champions League is to take each game as they come. It is very difficult to know the full potential of every team, because this is a competition in which you play the very best.
“You can never think of the future because there are extremely competitive teams, who each have great players on a worldwide level. To consider the future would be a mistake.”
