Marco Kurz is glad the wait to begin the Hyundai A-League 2018/19 season is nearly over following a long pre-season.
Adelaide United host Sydney FC on Friday night and Kurz is certain the Reds have strengthened their squad and improved from last season.
“The offseason is completely different to the season in Europe,” Kurz said at the Club’s Season Launch on Saturday night.
“It’s a long time we’ve three months in pre-season with a couple of good games.
“I think we lost last year a lot of good players but the replacements have been very good.
“I think we’ve signed players with a high quality and for me that have great personalities and the Club with the help of Ante Kovacevic did a great job.
“And now we’ve a strong squad with a high competition between the boys in each training.”
Kurz said one of the goals at the beginning of the FFA Cup 2018 was to reach the final.
Having realised that objective for a second consecutive season, the German tactician says the aim now is to lift the trophy on home soil in front of the fans in just over two weeks’ time.
“Our aim was to reach the final again and I think to reach the final again is special,” he said.
“This is the result of hard work and the belief in our qualities and also hunger for success and now to know we have a home game is amazing. It’s amazing for the boys.
“I think it’s amazing for the Club, for our fantastic supporters and for the city and I trust and believe in the boys and I think we’re ready for the title this year.”
In addition to wanting to win trophies, Marco was hopeful his side could play attractive football.
“I think our aim to play successful and good-looking football,” he said.
“When we start a game, we want to win that’s our aim in the season and to reach the finals again is also one of our aims.
“We’re looking forward, we’re happy that the start to the season is very close.”
The German also said he has enjoyed the relaxed Adelaide lifestyle since moving to the city of churches.
“It is a beautiful city,” he said.
“My partner Tammy and I, enjoy the city and it was the right step and the right moment for us.
“We’re very happy and very thankful for this big experience.”
Adelaide United host Sydney FC in Round 1 of the Hyundai A-League 2018/19 season on Friday, 19 October at Coopers Stadium. Kick-off is at 7.20pm ACDT. Live and Exclusive on Fox Sports.
