Sakari Mattila, one of HIFK’s key players, says that Mixu Paatelainen is already involved in the team’s next practice.
Matti Härkönen,
Timo Uusitalo
HIFK was badly in the wind on Monday when FC Lahti claimed a 3–0 crush victory from Töölö. Fortunately for the home team, the new head coach will be jumping into his work boots this week and will replace the one who was temporarily in charge today. Pedro Henriquesin.
Former Head Coat of Arms Mixu Paatelainen recently put his mark on the 2 + 1-year contract and pilot HIFK for the first time in Haka’s away match next Friday.
Member of the captain of the Helsinki team Sakari Mattila admitted that he had fallen apart after hearing Paatelainen’s name for the first time.
– Of course, there were rumors in the social media about his result. When I first saw Mixu’s name in them, it seemed pretty unreal to me. I’m very excited about the appointment, when I have mere good memories of Mixus. I think he fits like a nose to the head we follow, Mattila gets excited.
– He brings good presence and leadership. Above all, we will now have a coach on the training ground who will take us to Friday’s match. Personally, I feel like Mixu has been one of the best coaches to have developed my own play. During his time, I took a step forward.
– Young players will definitely develop and I already know that for us older players, Mixu will be a really demanding coach. It’s certain that somehow our experienced players will have to be on their toes in the future. Mixu will inspire fans with his own personality, Mattila knows.
Mattila admitted that HIFK’s concentration against FC Lahti was badly wrong, and the match was a complete downfall for the home team, which must not be repeated.
– It is clear that it is visible when there have been no head coach in two games. There has been a reaction in the team when the head coach no longer comes to training. Many mechanisms have changed and in a way it shows in our gameplay. Now you have to start concentrating to get your job and attitude in order step by step. Just the same person as head coach, but we can’t be around to play at home like today.
Mattila has not yet had time to talk to Paatelainen. The HIFK midfielder knows that no one will have any miracles on the gaming side in a couple of days.
– Mixu will definitely keep us awake and he will get decent energy for this group already on Friday. One hundred and ten surfaces are in all areas of the Factory. It’s then in his hands what tactical means we’re going to play.
HIFK – FC Lahti 0–3 (0-0)
0–1 Geoffrey 52 min
0–2 Zeqiri 80 min
0–3 Kandji 83 min
IFK Mariehamn – FC Honka 1–1 (1-1)
1–0 Sid 18 min
1–1 Krebs 21 min
Haka – HIFK,
FC Lahti – KuPS