Asier Garitano: "We need to focus on improving, playing competitive and taking things step by step"

C.D. Leganés manager, Asier Garitano, appeared before a press conference on Thursday before the clash against U.D. Ibiza this Saturday 19:30 CEST at the Butarque for the third game of the season.

The coach discussed the squad's stauts and the possible changes that could take place before the end of the transfer window on 31st August: "We need balance: we still lack a striker, we only have Avilés on the right wing, true, we have brought in Naim, but we still find ourlselves a little short. There are still 4 days to go and there are always suprises. We need to be prepared to see whether we can replenish the squad in these positions. Up front we now have Borja Garcés, but we haven't been able to use him yet. I'm confident we'll soon have another forward joining as its an area where we need some ability".

"If nothing happens we still have everyone available, which makes me optimistic and will help us improve going forward"

On the matter of Saturday's match, Garitano admitted it will be tough against a good team: "The newly promoted sides come with a lot of momentum, but every opponent presents challenges. The fixture schedule is what it is and there can't be changes. Ibiza are a strong team, but the focus for us is improving week in week out, which is what we are doing, improving players who were out, or arrived late... this is what will help us do better".

Moreover, he highlighted the complete availability of the squad: "Today was the first time we trained altogether as a group, including Avilés and Borja Garcés. Barring any sudden developments, we will have everyone available, which makes me feel optimistic about our chances going forward. It takes a lot to win, but we intend to play hard against an opponent that is yet to lose. This self-belief is what will give us peace of mind to start the match. I believe we're going to keep getting better and growing".

"Vamos mejorando en las posiciones de ataque, la competencia nos va a hacer mejores"

Regarding the attack, The Bergaran manager commented that "Arnaiz struggled in pre-season due to some injury problems, but he is a very quick player capable in tight spaces. Sabin can help us more in situations out wide, but normally we can bring him up front because we also have Bárcenas, Naim... Avilés also started training with the squad today and we'll keep developing our abilities in those positions".

Lastly, Garitano praised Luis Perea for his performance against Burgos C.F. "Luis needs to loosen up a bit more, he's a young lad who played a good game against Burghos and is different from everyone else we have here: he dominates in the air and on a day-to-day basis he's doing very well".