#AlmeríaMálaga analysis

"The match was a true reflection of all the team has done in the second round. A highly committed, solid team and I congratulate them for the umpteenth time (the players). Almería scored two goals, both of which were declared offside, which is what the VAR is for. It’s been such a stressful competition during this period of time that we couldn’t think beyond one day at a time. I remain with the pride and commitment of the team”.

Tension and competition

"In the situation we were in, just out of the danger zone, that level of difficulty didn’t allow calm, particularly in this competition. Competing in the play-offs isn’t the same as the situation we’ve handled. It certainly takes hold of you, but it wasn’t long before we weren’t suffering as much. Today was a match to compete, show a very solid defence and play in attack as we did before this COVID nightmare. We saw that, especially in the first half. Your mind always has to be clear and I think we’ve always been ‘in the game’”.

Deserving players and tactical decisions

"We deserved it, everyone, the fans…Every match has been a final. That calm doesn’t take away the sense of competing, which the team did today. Every game has a feeling, particularly with the Málaga shirt and three points at stake. Juande? Every decision we’ve made has been a tactical one, and we would have liked to have done more. If you go with four and there’s an expulsion…the rule isn’t great to give opportunities to the young guys”.

The players, protagonists

"There are many emotions. The other day I said the ‘I’, the ‘you’ doesn’t mean anything…it’s about ‘us’…In football you can go from hero to unemployed in a moment, or vice versa. But the first day I walked into this dressing room all the players showed they’re an amazing group. We needed to fight for the viability of the Club and for me it’s an honour to coach these players and this Club. They are the true protagonists and we as the coaching team are in the background. Proud and happy to focus on the future, and whatever it is, it will be better”.

Future

"These players have shown their commitment, beyond individualities. In terms of the future, I don’t know, I have no information – regarding salaries – but on a sporting level I would like to have these players plus the reserve team lads. We’ve created a very united group, and if used correctly, will be the motivator for the future. The viability of the Club prevails and the people working on it will have to take that into account”.