Keane: “We must show more attacking intent!”

Keane: “We must show more attacking intent!”

Ahead of Ferencváros’s crucial Champions League qualifier against Ludogorec, head coach Robbie Keane and defender Gábor Szalai spoke to the media.

Following a goalless draw in Razgrad, the Hungarian champions will face Ludogorec in the return leg of the third qualifying round at Groupama Arena on Tuesday, August 12, with kickoff at 8:15 p.m.

Gábor Szalai reflected on the first match:

“Both teams are evenly matched, and we respect our opponents. It’s always a positive when we keep a clean sheet,” Szalai said, emphasizing that the defensive success was a team effort. “We’ve reviewed what didn’t go well in the first leg. Our new signings needed time to settle, but they’re progressing well. What matters most is that we fight for one another and not just focus on individual goals—that’s what the coach expects from us.”

Robbie Keane, the Irish manager, commented on the team’s attacking approach:

“We need to be more assertive in front of goal—that’s how we’ll get results. I’ve heard from fans that they’ll be there, singing and backing us all the way. My role is to ensure the players deliver their best. Ludogorec showed their quality, especially in the second half.”

Keane also spoke about Zsombor Gruber and the younger squad members:

“Last season, I didn’t have much flexibility with the lineup, but now I do, and I intend to use it. Who deserves credit for Gruber’s progress? Me—just joking! I do play a part by giving him chances, but it’s up to him to seize them. The same goes for other young talents like Kaján and Madarász. Gruber benefited from his loan spell last season and returned more confident and aggressive. Being loaned out isn’t a setback—David Beckham was loaned out early in his career too.”