19.11.2010 14:40

Guardiola: "I do not want to underestimate Almería"

David Puig

Josep Guardiola is only thinking about FC Barcelona's game against Almería on Saturday instead of paying any attention to the encounter with Real Madrid the following week.

El Clásico maybe gripping the media, but the Blaugrana boss is not interested in looking beyond his team's next match and that is the one that takes place at the Estadio de los Juegos Mediterráneos. "It is good for us to talk about Almería," Guardiola said.

"We have not talked about the game this week due to the international games and we have not had that much to prepare for it. I do not want to underestimate Almería because the attitude taken towards opponents has been key in the success that we have had." Éric Abidal will be out of action and the coach added: "He has a slight bicep injury, but only a small thing. We do not want to risk losing him for longer though. In (Gerard) Piqué's case we will decide on the day if he will play or not."

Changing formation

Looking at Juan Manuel Lillo's Almería team Guardiola continued: "They have not conceded many goals and they are in the bottom half of the table due to the number of draws at home, where they have lost just once," he said. "They started with 3-4-3, then changed to 4-3-3 and then fielded five defenders against Athletic Club. You never know how they could play and that is an added difficulty for us."

Lillo influence

Guardiola was then asked about his opposing number and was full of praise for Lillo. "Everyone knows how much I appreciate him," the trainer said. "He has been crucial in my education. Of all the coaches that I have learned from he has been very important. My gratitude towards him is infinite and he knows that, but I want to beat him and he wants to beat me."