Mauricio Pellegrino knows Valencia’s opening fixture against Real Madrid is tough but believes his side have what it takes to beat the defending champions.
The former Liverpool and Inter assistant was bullish when asked about Los Che's chances at Santiago Bernabeu this Sunday, and was equally defensively when questioned about his relationship with Jose Mourinho.
“It will definitely be a tough game,” the new Valencia boss told AS today.
“But we have our game-plan so I think it will be equally as tough for them. Certainly no-one would have liked to have started their league season against Valencia,” he reiterated.
“I am privileged to be working with a great group of players – a group that are more than worthy of competing with Real Madrid.
“He [Jose Mourinho] is a Coach that I admire greatly. I like how he has adapted to different Leagues and been successful everywhere. I had the opportunity to get close to him when he was coach at Chelsea, but I have no relationship with him.”
He then concluded by explaining what he expected tactically from Los Blancos.
“They are a good team, and we know the characteristics of their game. They are excellent in every facet of their play, but I am more focused on what we can do.”
