Interview

‘We need to have that warrior mentality again'

Laurent Koscielny
Laurent Koscielny

Laurent Koscielny has called on the side to show their 'warrior mentality' once again when we face Rennes on Thursday night.

Our club captain knows we have it all to do after losing the first leg of our Europa League last-16 clash 3-1 in France, but believes that Sunday's win against Manchester United has given us a big boost.

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"I thought it was such a clinical and professional performance from the team," Koscielny told the official matchday programme. "Tactically, the gameplan set up by the manager was spot on. We were balanced, organised. We defended well and were efficient in attack. 

"What I liked the most about Sunday is what a wonderful team spirit we showed. We all fought for each other, all played for each other. We won the game mentally, in our heads. We were warriors. This is the mentality that will take us to the top.

"It is a big European night at the Emirates against Rennes and we need the place to be rocking. Our defeat in the first leg in France was disappointing after playing for more than 45 minutes with 10 men. The third goal we conceded, on a counter attack, hurt. However, we are still very much in this tie.

"Like in the United game, our team spirit will be one of the keys too. We need to have that warrior mentality, play for each other and believe in one another."