Míchel Sánchez wants another strong performance: 'So our supporters can be proud’

The squad trained at the Johan Cruijff ArenA on Wednesday ahead of Thursday’s clash. Kick-off in Amsterdam, where more than 50,000 supporters are expected, is at 20:00. The Ajax coach is looking forward to the encounter.

Hello Míchel Sánchez. Looking back to last week, what positives do you take from the match in Serbia?
"There were many positives, in addition to the result of course. Winning 1-4 away from home is an excellent outcome. But now we are playing at home, with our supporters behind us. We want to produce another good performance and win again to reach the next round."

"In Serbia, we attacked the spaces well, pressed excellently after losing possession and were a very aggressive team both in attack and defence."

Before we look ahead any further, can you give us an update on the squad in terms of injuries?
"Yes, Dies Janse is still injured. Ko Itakura and Josip Šutalo are also unavailable for this match. The rest of the squad is fit."

Following the 1-4 win in Serbia, Ajax are in a very strong position to progress. As a coach, how do you ensure the squad do not approach the return leg with any complacency?
"Because every match is different. We have to focus entirely on producing a good performance. Wearing the Ajax shirt is something special. It should be an honour for all of us, but it also comes with great responsibility. In every match we play, we must step onto the pitch with the intention of winning."

"The most important thing is that we deliver a strong performance. The team’s level has to be high and we want to win again at home together with our supporters."

In general terms, what are you expecting from the match?
"That we deliver another strong performance, continue to grow as a team and show both a collective mentality and a winning mentality. That is how we continue building an Ajax side that will achieve success in the future."

The team trained at the Johan Cruijff ArenA on Wednesday afternoon. Why did you choose to do that?
"Because it is something special. When we are in an environment like this, in our own stadium, it simply feels right. We also have new players who need to become familiar with the surroundings where they will be playing their matches."

Last Sunday you experienced your home debut as Ajax head coach at the Johan Cruijff ArenA. Now a European night awaits. What do you expect from the atmosphere inside the stadium?
"I have been told the stadium is sold out. That is fantastic news."

"I know the supporters are looking forward to this match and hope we deliver a strong performance. We want to play for them. We want to put in a strong display, make sure our supporters are proud of us and that they feel well represented. That is our objective for this match."