Fitness first: What Micho is focusing on right now | OneFootball

Micho’s thoughts had already turned to what comes next almost as soon as the final whistle went against FC Ingolstadt. “We’ve still got four weeks of pre-season ahead of us,” said the RBL head coach. “We’ll get into the finer tactical details later. Right now, it’s about working on our fitness.”

That was also how Micho viewed the 120-minute game against the third-tier side. The only goal arrived shortly after kick-off, with FCI captain Simon Lorenz turning Brajan Gruda’s cross into his own net (4’). What followed was an intense match that pushed the Red Bulls hard physically.

“We had two double sessions this week and did strength work as well. The legs were feeling heavy,” explained the 45-year-old.

Match report

Taking it slowly with the internationals

RBL had deliberately arranged the friendly over two 60-minute periods to give as many players as possible valuable minutes. The Red Bulls changed their entire XI at the interval. Assan Ouédraogo was the only player not to complete his full 60 minutes, with Samba Konaté  replacing him late on.

“Assan has only just come back from holiday and had four or five training sessions,” said Micho, explaining why the Germany international’s workload was managed.

The Argentine plans to take a similarly careful approach with the internationals returning on Monday. “We have to look after them,” he stressed. David Raum and Co. will also be eased back in step by step as they build up the fitness they need for the start of the competitive season.

Everyone will get their chance

Micho wants to give every player the opportunity to show what they can do over the coming weeks and stake their claim. “My job is to pick the players who can perform the best for the team,” said the Argentine.

Above all, the aim is to keep developing the side and “show our identity on the pitch”.

Abdoul Koné, meanwhile, faces a brief spell on the sidelines. Our new signing has suffered a capsular injury to his right shoulder. “He’ll be away from the group for a few days, but he’ll travel to the training camp with us,” said Micho.

The tactical side of things will then take on greater importance in Saalfelden. Micho is confident the progress will soon start to show on the pitch too.

His promise: “We will play better football.”

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