Rutenka: no pressure on the players

One of the most important players of Spanish Ciudad Real is Siarhei Rutenka. He started his Slovenian handball career in Velenje before he was signed by Celje where he was confirmed as an internationally renowned player. Though Rutenka is still only 26, he already won two Champions League titles and he was also top scorer of the competition. The Belarus-born star talks, former Slovenian international, talks to Eurohandball.com about the season.

Eurohandball.com: You gained the first two points in the Main Round with a 9-goal victory. How difficult was it against Gorenje?

Siarhei Rutenka: There are no more amateur teams in the Champions League. We had to face strong resistence against Gorenje with their deep defensive formation. We needed plenty of time to break it through. Before the match we were aware of Gorenje's qualities and did not think that this would be an easy match.

Eurohandball.com: Velenje is the city where you started your Slovenian career...

Siarhei Rutenka: I’m always happy when I can come back. I learnt a lot here and I would probably not be where I am now without all the people who were with me at the time. Slovenia is a place where I have many friends. I wish I could stay here a little longer.

Eurohandball.com: Last year Ciudad Real did not reach the final of the CL. Will it be easier this season?

Siarhei Rutenka: I think every year is just harder because the teams are getting more equal. We all want to reach the top of the Europe once again and not only this, we want to win all titles in Spain and in Europe.  

Eurohandball.com: Is there any pressure on the players after the Ciudad Real management invested so much money?

Siarhei Rutenka: No there is nothing worth mentioning. We cannot feel any pressure. We all feel obliged to win titles because we want to give something back.

Eurohandball.com: Spanish League, Spanish Cup, Champions League. There are a lot of matches to play. Do you think you will have enough energy?

Siarhei Rutenka: There are 17 players in the team. Three players can have a rest at a time. I think this is a good system with such a busy schedule that we have. We have many players and the work is shared equally.

Eurohandball.com: Certain players have defensive roles; the others are playing in attack. Don’t you mind this?

Siarhei Rutenka: I must say that we are not thinking or talking about it. Everyone has a special role and we do not make debate or complain. This is the reason it works properly.