Peter Bosz believes PSV are better prepared for their UEFA Champions League campaign than they were a year ago but insists his players must continue improving if they are to compete at the highest level.
Peter Bosz is relishing the start of another UEFA Champions League campaign with PSV, with Shakhtar Donetsk awaiting the Dutch champions in their opening fixture.
The PSV head coach believes his side have made clear progress since last season and says continual improvement remains essential in elite football.
“I think you always have to do that in elite sports; even if you haven’t necessarily fallen short of anything. If you don’t get better, you won’t become champion for the fourth time. The same applies in the [UEFA] Champions League. The goal is to win every match.”
Bosz expects a difficult test against Shakhtar, who have consistently produced competitive sides and once again have significant Brazilian influence within their squad.
“They’re able to field a strong team every season. They’ve been doing that for decades, and that’s impressive. This year, of course, there are a lot of Brazilians again; that’s well known. They have a team with a lot of quality.”
The Dutchman also reflected on PSV’s difficult European start last season, admitting his team were not yet ready for the demands of the competition.
“It’s very easy to say that we should have won that first match. Of course we want that. But at that stage, we just weren’t ready yet. I’d go so far as to say we’re further along than we were this time last year. We’re playing better football. A loss like the one against Telstar wouldn’t happen to us now.”
![Ivan Perišić’s influence on PSV’s younger players is going to be crucial [IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect]](https://deweb-519a7.b-cdn.net/post-images/f306cb74-db65-4060-8917-6de85f83533f.jpeg)
Ivan Perišić’s influence on PSV’s younger players is going to be crucial [IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect]Bosz highlighted Ivan Perišić’s influence on PSV’s younger players, pointing to the Croatian’s experience and professionalism.
“First and foremost, it’s great that a player like him is playing football in the Netherlands. He really does teach the young guys a lot. That takes you to a higher level.”
On team news, Bosz confirmed that Dennis Man is close to returning, while Kiliann Sildillia is set to undergo surgery. Alassane Pléa continues his recovery from a serious injury.
Bosz also addressed the criticism surrounding Ruben van Bommel and the incident involving Aaron Bouwman, confirming that Bouwman is recovering well.
“I’m very happy that [Aaron] Bouwman is doing well and that he’ll be able to train again next week. As for the incident itself, I’ll be clear: I find it laughable that it received so much attention.”
With PSV having lost some attacking production from last season, Bosz believes others must step forward.
“With Joey, for example, you could count on a certain number of assists per season. You can’t assume that anymore, but it’s up to the other guys to seize those opportunities.”
Ultimately, the PSV coach is eager to test his team against Europe's elite once again.
“The fact that we’re participating in it, that we get to compete against the best clubs once more; that’s what I’m looking forward to.”
