Clear concepts from the beginning
“From day one of pre-season training we have been very clear on what we have to do. We are fortunate to have an expert coach of this category and when he talks about what is going to happen we need to listen to him and take on board everything he says. In the end, what he says happens. There’s a very important part, which is the group. It’s a group with hunger, enthusiasm and a determination to achieve great things. This means that when the team isn’t doing great or we’re lacking a certain level, this ambition and determination to keep growing means victories are achieved. It’s one of the biggest changes I’ve noticed in the Club”.
LaLiga 123, highly competitive
“There are no easy games in this category. It costs a lot to get the points. This is the case for all teams, not just us. We expect an extremely difficult match, because they are also in need of points. We’re going to a good ground with the incentive and ambition of knowing that things are going well, and we need to follow the same path”.
‘FIFA virus’ in LaLiga1|2|3
“There are things that need to be changed by force and because of the level the Second Division is taking. International players begin to arrive, and it shouldn’t be that teams, who make investments in them over the season to give a cache for the league, are affected during five or six weeks as they have to go and join their national teams. It’s something that isn’t up to date with the level we’re at now”.
Fans played key role in comeback against Albacete
“We talked about the fans in the dressing room, and yes their support really showed. You could see the fans’ reaction when we conceded a goal, the truth is that everyone pushed the team forward. Before the first goal you could already feel the support. They understand that the team is capable of achieving things and read the part they play in the game. They pressed and helped to turn the match around. It really shows and is much appreciated. It’s far better to have the crowd on your side than the other way around. It’s positive, good for the team and helps us to achieve our goals”.
Elche, a tough rival
“For them it will be a good opportunity to get the three points at home. We’ll see what happens, as they had Sory away with his national team who I think for them is an important player, and they also have a Cup game today. They tend to favour approaching the game from the back. In addition, they now have a very fit forward, which really shows in the Second Division. We’ll see how Sory is, as if he’s not at his best it’ll be better for us”.
Juanpi back in the starting line-up
“He understood what the path was. The coach didn’t lie when he said it’s what he needed. Juanpi is doing it and is back participating with the group. It’s positive, not just for Juanpi, but the entire group. When you do things well, the coach is going to rely on you”.
Gustavo Blanco has adapted well
“I see him doing well, he arrived keen to work hard from the outset and quickly assimilated the concepts of what is a new style of football for him. I think he has done excellently well. He doesn’t just help on the attack, but in defence he’s virtually like another midfielder. Furthermore, he’s a fantastic guy, very open, and in the end, that integration into the team, with these personal characteristics, makes it easier and helps in his work”.
