Jupp Heynckes, manager of Bayer Leverkusen, acknowledged at his pre-game press conference before his squad takes on Atlético de Madrid that he is considering making some changes in the starting line-up, although he didn’t openly say who they might be. “The usual players have played many games and it wouldn’t be a bad idea to give them some rest.”

He made it very clear during his appearance before the media that “we’re focused on playing the same way as we have been up until now. We want to confirm the good performances that the team has been having. Furthermore, we want to boost our self-esteem for this Sunday’s match in the Bundesliga. The team knows how I think and that there are no less important matches for me.”

Regarding his opponent, the German manager said that “Atlético de Madrid has to win and will come very motivated, but we want to make it as difficult as possible for them. Our goal is to show our strength and power against an offensive squad such as Atlético de Madrid.”