José Mourinho detailed a tactical shift towards ball control and defensive stability for his team’s critical European qualification match against Ajax, emphasizing the high-pressure stakes for both sides.
Speaking to Sport TV about an hour before kickoff, Mourinho stated his team’s focus was to “have the ball and have the capacity to control the game.” This strategy marked a departure from prior performances, where such control was lacking, notably against Newcastle and in the first half against Chelsea.
The manager explained that the absence of winger Lukebakio, a player known for speed and depth, would necessitate an “interior game.” Midfielders Sudakov and Aursnes would be directed to move inside, supported by the team’s full-backs pushing forward.
Mourinho characterized Ajax as a “dangerous team on the counter-attack,” specifically highlighting a “very fast” left-wing player and Gloukh’s quality behind the attacker. He stressed the importance of avoiding turnovers in the build-up phase.
He also anticipated a potential tactical surprise from Ajax, suggesting they might deploy their “Japanese center-back in midfield to increase pressure with a more physical and athletic man.” This expectation arose from his analysis of their prior games and press conferences.
The coach underlined the critical importance of scoring first in the encounter. His team, he noted, struggles emotionally after conceding, often unable to “create opportunity after opportunity” to recover.
Mourinho observed that both teams entered the match “under pressure.” He suggested that whichever side scores first “can find a different stability” in the game.
Player João Rêgo echoed his coach’s sentiment, describing the match as “decisive.” He affirmed the team’s objective to secure all three points, stating, “a draw doesn’t help us at all.”
Rêgo also expressed pride in being coached by Mourinho, calling him “one of the best coaches in the world.” He added that the manager consistently pushes the players “to the limit” in training.
The team aims for ten total points to qualify for the next stage. Mourinho acknowledged this target would be challenging given upcoming fixtures against strong opponents like Napoli, Juventus, and Real Madrid.