Rafa Benitez, the coach of Panathinaikos, expressed his concerns regarding the team's performance during his tenure, urging for more time to effectively implement his strategies and enhance their game. In a pre-match press conference ahead of their game against Viktoria Plzen, he addressed the decision to include Hernandez over Kontouris in the European list, highlighting the need for balance in the team given recent injuries.

Benitez acknowledged the difference in performance between domestic and European competitions, noting that European teams often provide more space, which helps Panathinaikos play their desired style. He implied that this dynamic might not be the case in their upcoming match against Plzen, hinting at the challenges that lie ahead for his squad.

Additionally, he reiterated remarks made in a previous interview in Italy, emphasizing that the project he is working on aims to prepare the team for future success rather than focusing solely on immediate victories. The Spanish coach's comments reflect a commitment to long-term development, despite the challenges they face in the present, thereby signaling a call for patience from fans and management as the team works through its difficulties.