How to celebrate a historic success? Celje coach Albert Riera spiced it up with a ‘show’ at the press conference: “Stop shitting!”

Published on 30. August 2024 30. August 2024

Photo: Luka Vovk / Sportida

Harsh words were exchanged, the tone was elevated, and there was so much tension in the air that you could cut it with a knife. Was it at Ljudski vrt, where they had to say goodbye to Europe? No, not there. It was in Celje! In the princely city, where they celebrated a historic achievement! Yet, Albert Riera and his ego, despite the great feat, couldn’t move past the recent events. Defeats, cleanups, whistles… Despite advancing to the Conference League, Albert Riera lost his temper. Did you expect anything else?

Celje Luka Bobičanec — Photo: Urban Lesjak

“I felt that I was not being respected. Am I the same person today as I was eight months ago? Am I better today than I was yesterday? Or am I the same? No, today I am not a better coach because of success. I am the same as I was yesterday and eight months ago. I am no better, I am exactly the same. Neither victories nor defeats change me. True. I have achieved something. Even a lot. But I have also lost a lot. But… All I want is a little more respect,” said Albert Riera, visibly dissatisfied, who couldn’t help but take another jab at his predecessor Damir Krznar.

Albert Riera: “Players? Which players? Tell me, which?!”

“When I left, I left behind a fantastic team. And a fantastic atmosphere. That’s why Celje immediately called me back when I was available. For one reason only, to make the team winning again. When I returned, I encountered chaos in Celje,” was Albert Riera’s direct remark as he once again clashed with journalists over the players who had left. Albert Riera emphasized that they left because they didn’t give their all.

“Stop talking about players who are not here. Those who are not here didn’t give 100 percent to the club. If necessary, we will have only 15 players. Our academy is full of players who want to give 100 percent for Celje. The club brought me back for the second time, which means they trust me and know exactly what I will do. Stop doubting. My ideas are the same as they were eight months ago,” continued Albert Riera, still grumbling despite Celje’s historic achievement.

The Spaniard then “exploded” when a comment was made suggesting that some players feel he is not the same person as he was during his first stint in Celje. The former coach of Olimpija and Bordeaux lost his temper: “Players?! Which players?! Tell me, which?! Don’t want to? Then don’t say it. I don’t think the players are saying that. Are you thinking of one or two players? Where are they? Those who don’t give 100 percent are no longer here. Simple. Stop talking about players because you want to write crap about this club; I only want the best for it. Why do I make decisions? To win or lose? I want to win! I want to win so badly! Stop shitting!”

Celje Will Be Ready for the Champions League Next Season

As for the match against Pjunik, it was… joy, it was happiness. Happiness that will last for a while. “Fantastic. The boys showed exceptional spirit and intensity that was missing in previous matches. But don’t forget, we played many games, and the team was not always the same. Players need to gel, and injuries and the pitch conditions are not ideal. These are not excuses; they are reality. You cannot judge the entire season after just 20 days. We didn’t even train, we only played! The players deserve more; they are champions,” said the former Liverpool member, who added in the same breath: “Of course, I am satisfied. Mainly because of my players. I enjoy with them. I provide them with all the information and my knowledge. I see in their eyes that they want to learn and improve. But everyone must give 100 percent. I will accept nothing less. I am satisfied. This season, we were not ready for the Champions League. Next season, we will be!”

Albert Riera is a man of action, strong words, and ultimately the show that he brings to a sport where the show is simply essential. And journalists are part of that show. That’s why it is so intriguing. Or as the legendary Freddie Mercury once sang: “The Show Must Go On!” So, let’s move on, Albert! New battles lie ahead. Both similar and different.