Is your team ready for this crucial moment?
This pre-season was shorter than usual, but I believe we are prepared. We’ve worked hard, though we’re still missing a few key players who could have strengthened our lineup for this stage. Still, the squad is in good shape.

The heavy loss to Real Betis (0-4) last week raised questions.
That performance reflected the typical pre-season adaptation phase. Players like Malick Fofana, Ernest Nuamah, and Loïs Openda arrived later, so it was natural to see some unevenness. We fielded a young attacking lineup, and they need time to reach their full potential with us.

What’s the situation with Pavel Sulc and Mads Bidstrup, who won’t be available?
Sulc is recovering from a knee inflammation, while Bidstrup is dealing with a cartilage issue. I hope both can return soon. Sulc joined us later after the World Cup, and while he expressed a desire to play against Sparta Prague, it’s unfortunately not possible right now. He had an outstanding season last year, and top clubs are interested, but in football, any player can become a target—even within our own squad.

Sparta Prague’s Adam Karabec knows OL inside out.
He’s their standout player right now—free, versatile, and highly motivated. His set-piece delivery could pose a threat, so we’ll need to be vigilant there. Otherwise, we’re not overly concerned.

Does the group grasp the importance of this two-legged tie (August 4 and 11)?
The players understand how significant this is. We’ve discussed it openly. Everyone knows how tough our domestic league was to navigate, and the Champions League’s prestige is clear to every member of the squad. We must believe nothing is impossible—we have the talent to qualify, and we’re determined to fight for it, even if the road ahead is tough. »