"Everyone is able to perform 20 or 30 percent better than eight or ten years ago" - Movistar's Unzué on the sport's progression; Enric Mas' disappointing Giro

The first half of the Giro d’Italia has fallen short of expectations for Movistar Team. Especially in the case of Enric Mas, back to racing after eight months out and performing below what was hoped. Even so, Eusebio Unzué remains calm. The manager of the Spanish squad acknowledges in an interview with AS that the balance is bittersweet, but insists there is still time to react, both for his leader to regain rhythm and for the team to chase a stage win.

After stage 14, Unzué offered a frank assessment of the team’s situation, Enric Mas’s form, the future of youngsters like Cian Uijtdebroeks and Iván Romeo, and reflected on how modern cycling has evolved.

Unzué admitted that the main disappointment of this Giro has been Enric Mas’ competitive level, while noting there was uncertainty over how he would respond after so long away from the peloton.

He explained that, although training feedback was positive, the reality and demands of racing showed a different picture.

Even so, he avoids calling it a definitive failure and asks for time.

After losing more than ten minutes in the first mountain days, Movistar accept that the general classification is no longer an option.

Now, the focus shifts completely.

Unzué believes the collective work has been good, even if the payoff hasn’t arrived yet.

Enric Mas himself said before the Giro that he was aiming to fight for the podium. A statement that now raises eyebrows given his current level.

Unzué understands it, although he admits reality has been harsh.

But he also stresses that the definitive exam is always the race.

Looking ahead to the Tour de France, Unzué also spoke about Cian Uijtdebroeks, one of the team’s great hopes, who will return at the Dauphiné after overcoming his physical issues.

However, he cools any inflated expectations for his debut as leader at the Grande Boucle.

The priority is learning.

Another standout name was Iván Romeo, recently renewed through 2030 and seen as a strategic piece for the team’s future.

Unzué highlighted his quality, while urging patience before asking him for more responsibility.

On whether he might one day fight for general classifications, he was cautious.

Finally, Unzué reflected on how modern cycling has changed and why riders who won with certain numbers a few years ago can no longer compete with the very best.

For him, technology and professionalisation have lifted the average level dramatically.

And that shows directly in peloton speed.

Despite Mas’ difficult present at this Giro, Unzué hasn’t lost faith. He trusts in a steady improvement from his leader and that Movistar can still salvage something significant from this race. If the veteran manager conveys anything, it is a clear idea: patience today to compete again tomorrow.