We have started our preseason training in Palma de Mallorca, Spain, with my current team SHANGHAI SHENHUA. We will be here until January 22nd, when we will move to Marbella until February 2nd, and from there on to Madrid to complete the work on February 5th. After that we will return to SHANGHAI to celebrate Chinese New Year, on February 7th.
The preseason period is essential to develop the necessary physical, technical, tactical and mental preparation required to face a long and demanding season. Last year, the team reached the sixth position and this year our goal is to fight for a Champions League slot.
This is a tough challenge because many of our rivals will have the same objective, but we are preparing the team to tackle each match with team spirit, combative mentality and good football, so that we can bring plenty of joy to our fans.
Shanghai Shenhua is the ninth professional team that I have managed as coach, the second in the Chinese Super League after Beijing Guoan, but both my technical team and myself are starting out with the same enthusiasm and energy we felt the first time we boarded a plane bound for China.
Our goal is to work hard and capitalise on our skills and knowledge to bring out the best level that the team can offer in every aspect, take them to the first positions and make our fans feel proud of our effort at the end of the season.
All the best,
Gregorio Manzano
Head Coach of Shanghai Shenhua Football Club
