Bundesliga - Union coach Bjelica: Only character at the highest level
Union Berlin coach Nenad Bjelica sees a general potential for improvement in his team ahead of the clash with 1. FC Köln in the relegation battle in the Bundesliga. "We can improve in all areas, that's clear to everyone," said the Croatian ahead of the final game of the year on Wednesday (18:30/Sky) at the Stadion an der Alten Försterei.
At the press conference on Tuesday, Bjelica said that he had recognized deficiencies in defensive stability, transitional play and build-up play. The only thing he could not criticize his players for was their character, even after the disappointing 3-0 defeat at VfL Bochum last Saturday.
Bjelica had an extra 20 minutes of training with tactical elements in the stadium on Tuesday to get them in the mood for the game against Cologne. "The situation is not easy. The club has always played at the top in recent years," said the 52-year-old. He now needs players who are "ready to take on the relegation battle."
With the same number of points (10) and goal difference (-16),Union Berlin are only one place ahead of Cologne in 15th place because of the more goals scored. Bjelica hopes to go into the short winter break with a small cushion thanks to a win. He feels "great motivation in the team to go into the vacations with a win after such an autumn, which was not the best".
Information about the game on the Bundesliga homepage
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- Despite the disappointing loss against VfL Bochum, Union Berlin coach Nenad Bjelica praised his team's character, stating it as the only aspect they haven't been lacking in.
- In the relegation battle against 1. FC Köln, Bjelica recognized deficiencies in defensive stability, transitional play, and build-up play, but believes in his team's potential for improvement.
- The coach spent an extra 20 minutes on Tuesday for tactical training at Stadion an der Alten Försterei, preparing his players for the challenge against their fellow Bundesliga team from Cologne.
- With identical points and a –16 goal difference, Union Berlin is only marginally ahead of Cologne in the league standings, making every point crucial in the relegation battle.
- The clash between the two teams on Wednesday at 18:30 (Sky) will be broadcast live, with Union Berlin aiming to secure a small cushion before the winter break.
- The Bundesliga homepage will provide comprehensive information about the match, including team news, statistics, and live updates for soccer enthusiasts across Germany.
- The CDU/CSU, a major political party in Germany, has also expressed concern over the relegation battle, urging both teams to display resilience and demonstrate their status as premier league contenders.
Source: www.stern.de
