Garcia: Let’s stick together

Speaking at his post-match press conference, Garcia conceded there were not many positives to take from the match but reiterated the importance of remaining united and bouncing back straight away.

“The only thing we can do now is stop talking and get the best out of the group,” declared Garcia. “This isn’t the time for us to be divided - we need unity in these situations. Let’s stick together, all of us. We start again tomorrow ahead of Torino and BATE. We need to work hard, be humble and come through this tough spell with a win on the pitch – that’s the only thing we want.”

The Giallorossi went behind to a first-half strike from Alejandro Gomez, before German Denis dispatched a penalty to put the result to bed in the latter stages, with Maicon sent off for the foul that conceded the spot-kick.

“There’s not much we can take from this afternoon,” admitted Garcia. “We didn’t have the right attitude and let Atalanta dictate the pace of the game. They defended well through the middle and we didn’t do enough to attack down the flanks. We made too many errors.”

Is there a risk that the team may fall into a slump, like it did last year after the defeat to Bayern?

“I don’t think so, but we can only show that with our results. We want to show we’re capable of getting back to winning ways straight away. That’s the only way we’re going to achieve our objectives.”

Do you think you’re the right man to get Roma winning again?

“It’s been a tough week but this group can now show its worth in emerging from a bad spell. I won’t give up, I’m a fighter. I’m angry and disappointed but that anger will help us get through this period. I’m right behind my players, but we had to do better today.”

Who is responsible for these defeats?

“There’s not just one person who’s at fault – we all are. As I’ve said, now we need to stick together and keep our unity as that’s the only way we’re going to get back to winning ways. I take responsibility, that’s not a problem. I’ll front up so the players can be left in peace. They need to work hard and show humility and I’m sure as we get some players back the clouds will pass and there’ll be blue skies overhead once again.”

Now you need to demonstrate your unity in order to move on from here…

“I have faith in this group and we can only answer these questions on the pitch. We need to keep our mouths shut, work hard and show humility, now more than ever.”

Is it difficult to deal with playing in the Champions League and Serie A?

“It’s always tough to compete on two fronts. The Champions League uses up a lot of energy but we want to give it our all – we’re only 90 minutes away from the next round. We’ve taken a step backwards in the league today but nothing is lost. Negativity and a lack of confidence don’t help you going forward and trying to win matches. And winning matches is the only way for us to respond.”

Did the lack of a big crowd have a bearing at all?

“We are the only ones who deserve criticism today. I hope we see a full Olimpico again soon – we’re stronger with the fans. But we’re the only ones responsible for this defeat. I hope the fans come back to the stadium soon as it’s important to have a big crowd there for the big matches.”