Reporter
The Bernabéu experience as a springboard
Still basking in his outstanding performance against Real Madrid despite the 2-1 defeat, Gerónimo Rulli appeared at the press conference with a tone mixing calm and determination. For the Olympian goalkeeper, this first Champions League match has already borne fruit. “We faced one of the best teams in the world, and we stood our ground. This will help us not only for Paris, but for the whole season,” he said.
A more complete team
Asked about the tactical adjustments made by Roberto De Zerbi, Rulli emphasized the group’s flexibility: “We’re working on several systems, with two, three or four defenders. The team is becoming more complete, more adaptable.” For him, the key will be to keep improving in build-up play and strengthening the chemistry between the summer signings.
How can the match in Madrid help you before facing PSG?
G. R.: “This match helps us because we faced the best. We showed up at the Bernabéu, and that will help us for the Classique and for the season.”
The team switched to four, then three defenders. What does that change for you?
G. R.: “Not much. We work on all the options, and that makes the team more complete.”
On build-up play and the new arrivals:
G. R.: “We need to improve, be more fluid. We take risks playing out from the back, but that opens spaces up front. It’s a collective learning process.”
Preparing for the Classique compared to last season:
G. R.: “This match is special, the whole country watches it. We’ll be better prepared than last season.”
Your performance in Madrid: best game of your career?
G. R.: “I always prepare the same way. It was a great match, but I don’t change my routine. I want to show the best version of myself.”
On the Rabiot and Rowe affair:
G. R.: “It was painful, but it’s behind us. We’ve welcomed new motivated players. We have to move forward.”
Rumors about your departure?
G. R.: “That’s false. My aim is to give more than last season and to help OM win a trophy.”
On PSG and their evolution:
G. R.: “This is the best PSG in history. But our ambition remains to compete with them for the title.”
Facing Ajax again in the Champions League:
G. R.: “I went through a tough period there, but I hold no grudge. It will be special to face them again, but the most important is PSG on Sunday.”
A clear ambition
Through his words, Gerónimo Rulli confirms his role as a leader in the locker room. A tragic hero in Madrid, he wants to keep only the experience and the positive momentum to prepare for a Classique that will be as much a mental battle as a physical one. OM knows it cannot afford the slightest lapse against a PSG considered “the best in its history,” but Rulli promises a team ready to fight.
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