Málaga CF’s coach took part in a press conference before #MálagaRealValladolid.
He started off by analysing the match, in which the team is “focused” as “it’s the most important thing. It’s difficult playing against a rival who are very clear about what they’re doing, they’re a great team, but we have our weapons to counteract them: the team’s motivation and eagerness seen during the week,” he said.
Pablo Guede added that “winning is great and is what the team needs, as it clears the mind and boosts confidence.” In regard to the standings, he commented: “There are 6-7 teams involved and we have to take each match at a time, week by week, that’s the way to move this forward. We can’t look beyond Saturday, the only thing that should concern us now is tomorrow’s game.”
When asked about the team’s identity, the Blue and White coach said “attitude and intensity are non-negotiable. Running and scoring wearing this jersey must always be implicit,” he added.
“The players told me about their frustration of performing well yet not reaping the rewards. However, they’re in a good frame of mind and willing to work hard. That’s the important thing, none of the players have shown signs of throwing in the towel. Quite the opposite, they’re determined to turn the situation around,” he said regarding the team’s morale.
In terms of preparations during his first week, he explained that “it was very good, from the outset all the players have been committed to the cause, which is essential.” He’s “pleased” acknowledging that “it’s hard to assimilate everything in such a short time, but there’s no excuse, we’re going out there to win tomorrow.”
On a more personal note, he stated that it has been a week of “many emotions and hard work. I get to La Rosaleda at 06:45, leave at 22:00 and I’m asleep by 22:05,” he said about his working hours.
“I’m trying to hide all these emotions, a lot of emotions in such a short time. The affection is lovely, La Rosaleda is beautiful, but we need to focus on tomorrow’s match,” he affirmed. “There are a lot of mixed feelings, it’s hard to explain. I preferred to sleep at La Rosaleda rather than a hotel, it’s spectacular,” he said about his love for Málaga CF.
Lastly, he talked about the fans to whom he’s been connected since his time as a player. “Malaguismo never fails. It’s important that La Rosaleda is full and spurs the team on, no matter what. We really need their support, more so than ever. Not for me, it’s about being a Malaguista, who in these situations always give their all, I’m clear on that,” he stressed. “Seeing La Rosaleda full gives me great happiness, not pressure.” The coach ended his press conference by stating: “I hope we win tomorrow’s match; we need to give everything we’ve got in every game.”
