The Men's First Team are off the mark in the UEFA Europa League after beating NEC Nijmegen 5-0 at the Allianz Stadium on Matchday 1 of the League Phase.

Coach Luciano Spalletti and goalscorer Nico Gonzalez spoke to the press after the match.

LUCIANO SPALLETTI

“I’m very pleased with the win and the performance because the team went out onto the pitch with a clear head, turning the doubts that follow defeats into decisions to be made. They managed to capitalise on their determination, they did well. We needed a bit more cohesion and strength at this stage, making a change to how the match then unfolded was the right decision.”

NICO GONZALEZ

“We needed this win and to play good football. We’ve been training hard and tonight we put in a great performance, taking home three important points. I’m settling in well with the team, thanks in part to the manager and my teammates, who have shown faith in me. It’s a long season. The penalty? It’s important for our strikers to score goals, that’s what they live for. Let’s hope this is just the start for them.”