The first question was directed at Farioli regarding Brian Brobbey’s fitness. "He’s not fully fit and still recovering. The last few matches have been tough, and he’s taken a lot of knocks. We’ll make a decision tomorrow, and we’re monitoring the situation closely. Brian’s own feeling is also an important factor. We’re already missing some strikers, so we need to be smart."
Against PEC Zwolle, Bertrand Traoré filled in as striker. "Bertrand is a different type of player than Brian. His style as a forward is unique and adds something to our team. But we’ve played without Brobbey or Wout Weghorst before. We have options tomorrow."
Konadu, Jetten and Matheus
One of the attacking players included in the squad is Don-Angelo Konadu, and Farioli confirmed he is an option. "Right now, anything is possible. I like his attitude—he works hard and has been performing well, including last week in Amsterdam. Of course, playing at this level is challenging, but he’s doing well."
Another youngster traveling with the squad is Lucas Jetten. "Some players didn’t come out of Sunday’s match completely fresh. Since we’re training here on Friday as well, it’s good to have him with us."
Goalkeeper Matheus was absent in the first leg in Amsterdam but is available in Frankfurt. "It was important for us to register Matheus. Have I discussed this with Jay? No, the hierarchy is clear. Remko Pasveer is the number one, and Matheus has been the number two since joining," said the coach.
Farioli reiterated his confidence in the Brazilian goalkeeper. "I’ve already said he is very experienced and complete. Matheus is solid in goal and strong with his feet. He brings a sense of calm, which is why we brought him in. As for Pasveer, he’s doing well. He’s around the team a lot and working hard on his recovery. He behaves like a leader, even from the sidelines."
Klaassen on family and focus
Klaassen missed Sunday’s match in Zwolle due to the birth of his daughter. "Everyone is healthy, and I’m happy to be here," he said with a smile. "Our daughter was born just before kickoff, so I was able to catch a bit of the match."
The midfielder is pleased that suspended Jordan Henderson has traveled with the team and that Brobbey is available. "That’s really important. Having them both here is great for the team, especially since we’re training here on Friday as well."
Before journalists shifted focus to Thursday’s match, Klaassen was asked about his future next season. "What will I do? I really don’t know yet. We’re in a crucial phase right now, so we’ll see afterward. To be honest, I’m not thinking about it much—I’m focused on everything happening at the moment."
Tough challenge in Frankfurt
Klaassen expects a tough battle on Thursday evening. "It’ll be a close game, just like in Amsterdam. They’re a team with a lot of power, and small mistakes can be costly because they will capitalize quickly. The little details will make the difference. We’re starting from behind, so it’s all or nothing."
