You mentioned that Lisandro is not fit. Do you have an idea of when he might be back? Will it be before the upcoming international matches or afterward?
“I’m not certain. He trained very well, although it was on a separate pitch, and I was there watching. He feels good, and his knee is responding positively. However, I don’t want to give a specific timeline. He’s getting closer to rejoining team training, but it will depend on his progress and whether he can earn his spot back, which is up to him. He is approaching a return to training.”
After the game on Sunday, I noticed you were smiling, but you mentioned that the media should continue with their narrative. Does the team draw strength from the doubt that others have about you?
“No, what I meant is that we can’t make too many changes based on external opinions. They asked me a question about finishing in the top four. We shouldn’t let a small margin—like 20 centimeters on a shot from [Cody] Gakpo—alter the narrative dramatically. I just want to maintain a sense of calm and a clear direction in our work. There will always be doubts as a manager in this type of club, especially when performances aren’t where they should be, and those doubts are valid. However, we need to stay focused on our path and not alter our approach based on one win.”
This is probably the first time since you joined Manchester United that I’m not being asked about your system during a press conference. It seems that winning the last two games has shifted the focus. I’d like to discuss Harry Maguire and how he’s revitalized his career at Manchester United, which must be very satisfying for you.
“Absolutely. I believe playing with three center-backs has been beneficial for him; he appears to be more comfortable in that setup. Being positioned centrally allows him to minimize the need to drift to the sides. The style of play can greatly influence how players perform. I’m quite pleased to see his improvement. While he’s not young, there’s still a lot he can learn and enhance. I believe he has the quality to be even better with the ball at his feet. Nowadays, with the number of players in the box during set pieces and how teams are defending, he is a crucial player for us. I’m happy with his progress, but he must keep pushing forward. What’s done is in the past; we must focus on the present and future.”
