Madelón: Respect your opponent, but stay true to yourself | OneFootball

On the eve of a clash that could mark a turning point in Unión’s season, Leonardo Madelón went back to doing what he does best: speaking clearly and transmitting confidence. From Mendoza, where he is preparing to face River in the round of 16 of the Copa Argentina, the coach delivered statements that sum up his essence.

There were no calculated messages. There was football, identity, and humility: “We’re arriving in great shape. The match is prepared. No excuses and we’re very comfortable going into this game,” he said right off the bat, making it clear that Unión didn’t travel just to see what happens, but to compete.

Fully aware of the opponent’s strength, Madelón doesn’t shrink away. He respects them, but also reminds everyone that, at this stage, respect can’t mean submission. “Sometimes a low profile is actually a high one. So you have to respect your opponent, but only up to a point, because after that you have to start being yourself. You shouldn’t focus so much on the adversary,” he stated, taking a stand.

And with the ease of someone who doesn’t need to fake anything, he left a phrase that perfectly sums him up: “What should we do? Play better, score more goals, and run more than River (laughs).” But it wasn’t all about strategy and the pre-match build-up. Madelón also took time to talk about the Copa Argentina, a competition he feels is his own and that, according to him, deserves more recognition. “I care a lot about the Copa Argentina. I love it, because I was partly involved in helping those who started it. That’s why I defend it and why we have to take care of it. Above all, respect it. It’s growing, but it needs to grow more. And enjoy it.”

Madelón’s words at Unión

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This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.