Dundee’s manager, Steven Pressley, has taken a proactive approach to self-care by stepping away from football for a week. Following a disappointing 1-0 loss against Hearts, Pressley sought a break to recharge before the upcoming match against Celtic.
Taking Time Off to Recharge
Pressley, aged 52, returned to his family home in England during the international break. He emphasized the importance of taking time off, stating, “I completely switched off from football.” This break allowed him to refresh his focus and prepare for the challenges ahead.
Team Wellness
- The players and staff were also given time to recuperate, with a total of four days off.
- Pressley believes that showing the best version of oneself requires occasional breaks.
Reflecting on his week away, he remarked, “I paid virtually no attention to football.” His only significant football-related engagement was watching his son, Aaron Pressley, play for Walsall. He considers such downtime essential for personal and professional growth.
Lessons from the Past
Pressley acknowledged that his early career was marked by the belief that constant visibility was necessary. “I was 24-7 and never took any time off,” he recalled. This mindset often led to burnout. However, during his tenure at Brentford, he learned from manager Thomas Frank the value of taking regular breaks.
Upcoming Challenge Against Celtic
As his team prepares for the match against Celtic at Dens Park, Pressley recognizes the seriousness of the upcoming challenge. “Celtic will be a wounded animal after their recent defeat at Dundee United,” he expressed. He expects that they will come to Dens Park highly motivated to rectify their previous mistakes.
Pressley’s decision to take a week off to recharge is a testament to his evolving approach as a manager. Prioritizing mental health and well-being could enhance his team’s performance and overall morale in the face of tough competition.
