Sergey Rebrov, the technical director of Al-Ain (the leader), called on his team to double the focus when playing the “El Clasico” against its traditional rival, Al Wahda (the Honorable People).
The two teams will clash in the sixth round of the ADNOC Professional League, where the leader will come fourth with 10 points, followed by the honorable people, who collected 7 points and placed them in fifth place.
Rebrov said, “We have to take the necessary seriousness, especially after Al-Wahda was keen to change its technical staff, and adopted a different approach, and gained more points from its last matches.”
And the Ukrainian coach continued, “We must take all the matches seriously, regardless of the name of the team we will face. Of course, in any derby match, we have to be more serious.”
Rebrov added, “The most important thing for me and the players is that we raise the level of concentration and show the true Al Ain character on the ground. It is important not to be influenced by any pressure because of this match, and to focus on what is required of us to do.”
During the introductory press conference, the conversation turned to the performance of the unit, with the 48-year-old commenting, “We must focus on our affairs, and if we are not sure of our level of play, this is our problem.”
Rebrov stressed, “We must not fear any opponent, we are the holders of the league title, and this season we are required to remember how we won the title.”
The retired striker was asked about the events of the last Clásico last March, as it was accompanied by mass chaos, and clashes between a number of players, and the fans of both teams.
Rebrov admitted, “What happened was not a good thing. We know that these matches are full of emotions, but we have to show respect for each other, and the fans treat each other with respect. There is no need to commit offenses.”