De Zerbi: Bentancur, Bissouma ‘very important for us’, Bergvall ‘changed the game’
Roberto De Zerbi underlined the importance of Rodrigo Bentancur’s return to fitness and spoke about the ‘connection’ between Rodrigo and Yves Bissouma after our 2-2 draw against Brighton.
The pair were back together in the midfield engine room for the first time since our UEFA Europa League Final triumph against Manchester United in Bilbao – 21 May last year.
Since then, we’ve played 48 competitive fixtures with both players suffering setbacks – Rodrigo’s return against Brighton marked his first appearance since a hamstring injury required surgery in early January.
Asked about Rodri’s return, Roberto told us: “He had a great game. Like Bissouma, both are very important for us as personalities, as experience. They know, they have a great connection between them.
“We have also Archie Gray, Joao Palhinha, Pape Sarr, Lucas Bergvall. Lucas played 10 minutes, but he changed the game. We have a lot of good players.”
Indeed, moments after coming off the bench, Lucas won possession high in Brighton’s half, Xavi Simons took over and rifled the ball home for 2-1. Unfortunately, Brighton hit back in the 95th minute to grab a share of the spoils.
Roberto added: “I would like all attackers to play like Solanke and Xavi today. They are not arrogant, but they believed in themselves and were clear. I have to work with Kolo Muani. He is a big talent. I want to help him not only to win a game, but just for him to show what he is able to do on the pitch.”