Mauricio: "With the arrival of Lucescu things have changed, but we are making progress"
The Brazilian midfielder gave an interview for Bobsoccer on the match against CSKA Moscow, team changes and Mircea Lucescu.
All matches against CSKA Moscow are extremely important to us as CSKA are our main rivals for the title. Last season we beat CSKA Moscow in the Cup final and we've recently proved to be the better team with the match in the Super Cup. I think CSKA haven't forgotten about that and will be very ready for Saturday's match. It's an important and very challenging game.
On the demands of Lucescu
My first contract with Zenit was originally for six months, so I had some very serious worries. However, Andre Villas-Boas trusted me and helped me adapt quickly to Zenit and feel confident.Of course, Lucescu has a different view of football, but he trusts me too, so I feel comfortable here.
About the changes at Zenit
A very important difference is the mentality and principles of the game from the Manager. Lucescu's arrival has changed us quite dramatically. For twelve years he successfully coached at Shakhtar Donetsk, where he built the game around young players. Zenit are individually strong with experienced players. Again, we are changing and it is not so simple. However, we want to help our Manager. I am sure, Zenit will progress, his requirements? In my understanding, Lucescu wants us to constantly monitor the ball and have good possession and statistics. Now we need to strengthen the game in individual areas, including passing the ball forward.
The full version of the interview is available on bobsoccer.ru .
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