Eirik Horneland: "Build on what we've worked on"

The Injury Update

The start of this week has been rather positive. We were able to welcome back several players, including Léo Pétrot, Mickaël Nadé, and Aïmen Moueffek. Mathis Amougou, who will resume training on Sunday, is unavailable for this match, as are Yunis Abdelhamid and Ibrahim Sissoko, who are suspended.

First Impressions of the Group

It’s been a good first week that gave me a positive first impression of this group, which consists of great guys who are committed and eager. They want to learn, bring intensity to training, and help us integrate into this fantastic club. I’m happy to be working with them.

The Need for Intensity

For me, football must be intense. We want to be aggressive and position the team higher up the pitch. Saint-Étienne has incredible supporters, and we need to have a team that reflects that on the field. We have a clear idea of the style of play this club should have: a compact team, tight lines, and a more offensive approach. We need to work in that direction and start showing it as early as tomorrow (Saturday).

Collective Work

For me, defense and attack go hand in hand. It’s important, especially at home, to push the team higher up the pitch to put pressure on Reims. Being offensive is essential. (…) I want us to work collectively to help each individual player improve. I strongly believe in developing the squad, the importance of training, and working with players to help them progress. There is a lot of potential to unlock in this group.

The Absence of the Kops

I would have really liked to have them with us against Reims, and I look forward to their return because they mean so much to this club. They play an essential role at home. This Saturday, we’ll have to do without them. We’ll need to find that extra energy within ourselves.

The Stade de Reims

They are a solid team that concedes very few goals, with physical and technical qualities. They are well-organized and enjoy playing on the counterattack. (…) On our side, I expect a certain attitude, a desire to challenge Reims. I want a team that is connected, both defensively and offensively. We’ll face challenges, and it will require focus and organization. (...) We’ll need to build on the work we’ve done during this first week.