Key Takeaways
- Albert Riera strongly denies any conflict with Eintracht Frankfurt striker Jonathan Burkardt
- The Spanish coach attacked media reports, stating he “will not accept any lies”
- Riera praised Burkardt’s professional reaction after being dropped from the starting lineup
Eintracht Frankfurt head coach Albert Riera has firmly rejected claims of a conflict with striker Jonathan Burkardt. The Spaniard delivered an angry speech during his media briefing on Thursday.
The 42-year-old insists there is “a lot of poison” circulating about the Bundesliga side. He believes journalists are creating a negative atmosphere around the Hessen-based team.
“I will not accept any lies,” Riera stated firmly. “I am not here to be a puppet. I demand respect.” The former Liverpool defender then praised Burkardt and the entire playing group.
He promised total dedication from his players. “Every single player will give everything for this club until my final day here,” he said. “The squad remains one hundred percent committed to our targets.”
The coach explained his selection choices. He noted that benching players sometimes helps him gauge their character. “When I leave a player out, I want to see how they respond,” he explained.
Riera highlighted Burkardt as a positive example. “Jonny displayed an excellent response. He trained superbly after that match,” the coach revealed. “Every decision I make aims to secure victories.”