Córdoba-Málaga
“This season’s match against Córdoba was probably the most uncomfortable one. They’re top in terms of recovery pace, they’re a very strong team in high pressing, they push you to the limit, and it’s very difficult to get past that first line of pressure. They don’t let you play, you don’t get moments where you can hurt them. And with the ball they handle it very well. They’re top 3 or top 2 in taking the initiative in play. They’re a rival it’s very hard to impose yourself against.”
Córdoba pressure
“The challenge will be that, once we break that line of pressure, our first line has enough calm to get through it again. That will be very important and will determine whether we can maintain continuity. It won’t be easy, but hopefully things go well because it can be very decisive in what happens.”
Away from home
“There’s something very important: repeating the same thing many times. We’re not trying to be two different teams with two different faces. Repeating the idea makes you feel it much more. Away from home we’ll try to be bold on the ball, not take a step back or play it safe. That intention leads you to repeat it over time, and that’s what makes it more effective. We’re fully convinced of that.”
Continuity and identity
“We can’t have two different faces, another matter is if Córdoba force us into it. We’re going to try to win the ball back quickly and maintain continuity, as we have in the matches since I arrived. That gives us a clear identity, so people know it’s Málaga. Córdoba have achieved something similar in recent years, with a very strong base, you know it’s Córdoba. Ania has left his mark. That gives them a lot of solidity, year after year. That has great value."
Motivation
“The level of motivation has to be there and has to be maintained, and you have to get excited about any scenario. It’s a derby, there’s a very special side to it and we all have to enjoy it. It should be a footballing celebration, and all the conditions are in place to experience a great match.”
Fans
“One of the things that sets us apart from other teams is that, even as visitors, we feel like the home side. On every away trip you can hear our fans, that has incalculable value, and we’re enjoying it immensely.”