Alexis Mac Allister spoke at a press conference on Thursday where he commented on the Argentina national team and the match vs. the Netherlands in the quarter finals of the World Cup.
Mac Allister has emerged as a starter for Argentina. He has started the last three matches for Argentina which have been wins and is expected to start the quarter final match. Speaking at a press conference on Thursday, here is what he had to say:
“We had a big excitement, we know that Argentina is very strong. We have a great squad, a great history and an excellent squad with big players. And of course our goal is to make the next stage but we know we are facing big national teams.
“We still have one training to fine tune the details. But the most important thing is to think of ourselves and be aware of what we can do. And if we do things right, I am sure we will be fine.
“The squad is feeling great, both emotionally and in football terms. We are very much united and we enjoy ourselves. This is a crucial part for everyone and when on the pitch, we always try to have our best moment.
“The match vs. Australia was pretty close to the last one but now we have many days to rest. We also have time to see our families. I think those days were excellent for us. It was great to be ready mentally and physically.”
In regards to the match vs. the Netherlands on Friday:
“They are a good team. We like watching football, we have watched their matches and they have great players with a clear vision of play. But we try to think beyond that and focus on our own game.”
He was also asked about Rodrigo De Paul:
“Rodrigo De Paul is crucial, both on and off the pitch. But Scaloni will decide who is in the starting eleven. We have great players and the one’s on the pitch will try to give their all for this squad. We won’t change our game.”
Regarding himself:
“I am a player, you won’t see me with the ball going through three-four players. I am feeling very good, my team mates are helping me a lot and that for me is crucial I have to say. From day one, they trusted me and that has been essential.”
About Louis van Gaal:
“We know he is a top coach, world renowned. All his teams have different variations but with a clear idea. We will try to do our best in order to win.”
When asked about which Argentina player has surprised him:
“Well, surprise is… It’s difficult to single out one player from our national team. We know Leo and he surprises us every day. I would say it’s Leo Messi. He does unbelievable stuff, both in training and in matches.”
On what he can say about the 2014 semi final:
“I remember I watched the semi finals with my family at home. I very much enjoyed it and well now, I am at this World Cup and to be able to play is a great pride and I am very excited.”
