Real Sociedad midfielder Markel Bergara claims he is upbeat about his team’s Champions League prospects, even if it means qualifying through La Liga again.
Jagoba Arrasate’s men earned their first group point when holding Manchester United to a goalless draw two weeks ago but remain bottom and four points adrift of third-placed Shakhtar Donetsk.
However, the San Sebastian outfit can keep their faint hopes alive if they beat the Ukrainians next Wednesday and United overcome Bayer Leverkusen in the other game.
“We know we must win both games in the Champions League and that’s what we’ll be trying to do, because we have a squad capable of being in Europe,” the 27-year-old told a Press conference.
“Years like the last one only come round once in a while, although we must think that if we’ve done it once then we can do it again. Nor do I see any other team fighting for the same objectives that is superior to us.
“Even so, we are involved in three competitions and must give them all the same importance. In La Liga we must take things game by game, knowing we have to get as many points as we can to fight for Europe.
“In the Copa del Rey we have the same hopes and are aware that the game against Algeciras is a potential banana skin. We must fight to the death or we’ll get nothing.”
Bergara believes the international break has arrived at a good time for the La Real players to recharge their batteries, particularly after playing seven games in 20 days, while he feels home form can be crucial in the coming weeks.
“The rest will be good for us and give everyone time to think about things, but this Saturday we’ll be starting another marathon.
“In the last few years we’ve been very good at Anoeta and are getting points there this season. To achieve our aims we have to be very strong at home and take the points from games like Celta this weekend.
“We are coming off a break, so there is no excuse, but they will also want to win so we’ll see what happens,” he added.
