Winter transfer window
“When you first begin such an important role you learn things every day. My entire team has supported me a great deal. The speed of the academy is different, things are on more of a longer term, whereas this has been much more fast-paced. I’m pleased with my first experience, and I hope we can all enjoy what we have.”
Arrivals and departures
“I’m proud of how the team has reacted, and everyone has done their bit. The team’s necessities were very clear; a right-winger and a striker, plus we also had unexpected situations such as the payment for Nordin (Amrabat’s) clause, and we also signed Atsu. At the last minute Angeleri exited, which we covered slightly with Cifu, thus releasing Torres from the wing should the coach consider appropriate. With Ricca, the Club has to continue functioning and we’ll try to keep moving and growing even more.”
Ricca and Uche, latest signings
“Nobody could argue the quality of Uche, we’ll give him time and enjoy what he does. He passed his medical perfectly and is ready to play. Ricca is a valued player from Uruguay, and we believe he could be a major asset in the future for our Club, both short and long term. He’s a left-back, aggressive, kicks the ball well and has the ambition to be a great footballer. He is growing and I hope we see him in action for a long time. In this aspect we gain time by bringing forward his arrival. We thought about two or three more additions, plus the two surprises we had.”
Full confidence
“We’re fully aware that the teams in the relegation zone are tightening, so the new signings will give us an added bonus. It’s important to achieve the necessary victories as soon as possible in order to secure permanency and be more relaxed. There has always been dialogue with the coach and he was pleased with what he had, and now I see him very excited. I’m happy with what we’ve got, and the coach is too. Javi has already proven that he knew what he was doing, and no one would argue his coaching ability.”
