The start of the match will be key
“It took us a bit to get going because of the points that slipped away, but the players have been able to refocus. It’s been a very good week and we can’t wait for the match. It’s important to withstand the first 20 minutes, to compete well enough so that if they want to challenge us, they have to earn it and we don’t give them anything. We need to hold firm in the opening minutes and be able to defend their transitions. The first part of the match is going to be very important.”
Managing how to approach the match as the away team
“It’s been very important for us to focus on how we want to approach an away match. We competed very well in Valladolid, and we need to repeat that dynamic. Playing away is not easy. We have to maintain the consistency we’ve shown and carry it into the match. If we keep that strong competitive level, we can build on whatever comes next.”
Chance to correct mistakes
“Difficulties have to be seen as a challenge. It’s important to understand what happened so it doesn’t happen again. We have the chance to correct things, see why they happened, and focus so they don’t repeat. Albacete knows we are a young team and haven’t picked up many points away from home. We have strengths we need to rely on, the Valladolid game showed that. We have to think about what we’re going to do to compete well; everything else comes later. You have to manage that, figure out what you can put in place so history doesn’t repeat itself. When a pattern appears more than once, you have to identify the circumstances so it doesn’t happen again.”
Every player contributes
“We’ve made four line-ups, not three, one was for the Copa del Rey. I tell the players that when they put on the Málaga shirt, they should play to become a legend. Wearing the shirt is an opportunity to show both individual and collective ability. Every moment is an opportunity; there’s no difference between league and cup. Everyone except Eneko has been able to experience a match from the start. We’ve tried to repeat a pattern over time to evolve a bit more. We have to ensure that, in the end, everyone can contribute. That situation will develop over the weeks. Players who take part can make a decisive contribution to what happens, and we trust them. Many changes have been made.”
Regaining players to improve competitiveness
“I’m not thinking about departures. Considering signings implicitly means telling someone they won’t continue with the team. All licenses are covered; I’m focusing on the players we have and making sure they are in the best condition to help. Our squad is currently small due to injuries, but they will recover. When they become available, we’ll take a step forward without needing new signings. I have a lot of confidence in the players we have, and that’s the part I need to focus on.”
Being Málaga CF’s coach, an honour and a responsibility
“You experience it with a sense of responsibility. The advantage is that I’ve been at the club for many years and have seen it from the inside, which gives me an edge. The weight of the bench is clear; there’s responsibility. I focus on what I can change and live day to day with great intensity. Time isn’t eternal, not for coaches, players, or anyone. For coaches, it’s usually quite short. We are living each day with intensity and eagerness. Many people would like to be in our position, it’s a luxury that has to be embraced with the responsibility it deserves.”
Alberto González, a familiar face
“We’ve faced each other many times; I’ve known him for over a decade. Alberto González took over the Loja bench when I went to Salamanca. I have affection for them, they’re doing a good job and getting the most out of some very capable players. I don’t know if there will be any surprises, we’ve known each other for a long time. We’ll prepare for any surprises that come our way.”
