Young Boys manager Giorgio Contini has fired a warning shot ahead of his side’s visit to Celtic Park on Wednesday night, despite the Swiss side’s dismal European campaign so far.
For Celtic, the stakes couldn’t be higher. A win should secure their passage to the knockout stages of the Champions League—a monumental achievement that would bring with it significant financial rewards and enhance the club’s reputation on the continental stage.
Young Boys, however, have endured a torrid season in Europe, sitting rock bottom of the league with no points and a goal difference of minus 19. Domestically, they haven’t fared much better, languishing in ninth place in the Swiss Super League.
Speaking ahead of the tie, Contini stressed that his side will not abandon their principles despite the daunting challenge awaiting them at Celtic Park.
He said: [BlueWin]
“We have to find a balance between the time available and the results. But I have already given input.
“For example, that we have solutions with the ball, that we’re more creative in possession again. I would like to see that. But I know that it won’t happen overnight.
“That’s why we first have to rely on our usual strengths and boost our self-confidence with positive results.
“Pressing is part of Young Boys, and we don’t want to shake this DNA.
“We want to be a team that presses, that is good at counter-pressing and switching play.
“This game also suits the squad, which combines fast players and those with a lot of physical presence.
“We will certainly stick to that.”
Celtic’s struggles when faced with high-intensity pressing were evident during their narrow 2-1 win over Kilmarnock in the Scottish Cup on Saturday. While the Hoops managed to play through the press at times, they were also guilty of some loose passes and moments of slackness that could have been punished by a more clinical opponent.
Although Young Boys have been one of the weakest side in the competition, they still pose a threat. Even minor mistakes on Celtic’s part could be capitalised on by the Swiss side, who will view this game as an opportunity to salvage some pride from an otherwise disappointing European campaign.
With Daizen Maeda and Nicolas Kuhn returning to the squad, Rodgers has the attacking firepower needed to break down Young Boys’ press and secure the vital three points.
