Match review

“We faced an opponent who was superior to us during phases of play. We lacked energy in the first half to push forward, we gave them too many situations for them to run. In the second half we changed to a 4-3-3 formation to try to disrupt the game. We had two very clear chances, and they enjoyed several approaches. The key action was Alfonso's save. The boys are not machines, we were up against one of the best teams in the category. We’re not satisfied with the point, the team showed more heart than head. The only way to break up the game was to mess it up and we got a point.”

A long way to go

“We are Málaga, the boys are doing a great job. We have to wait until the end of the season to release the war tanks. We have to compete to the maximum, we were in a situation without midfielders. It’s a step forward in terms of soul for the boys. We are making mistakes, the fans help us in bad moments. We’re not going to win everything here. It’s a step forward for the team in soul but we weren’t successful. I congratulated them knowing that we haven’t had a good day.”

A group with ambition

“The players weren’t happy in the dressing room as our objective in every game is to win. We are in a difficult division and you don't win with the shield alone. We have an incredible fan base, one day we may be less successful, but the effort is non-negotiable. This is a very long road and we have to focus on ourselves. The goal is to compete every game, be as high as possible and see where we get.”

Self-criticism to continue improving  

“The other day was another match context. Córdoba are one of the best teams in the category and were superior. We weren’t fresh in our decision-making, we abused the long ball to Roberto. The rival also plays, but we weren’t accurate or successful when it came to making decisions. I don't have to look for an excuse, the players who went on gave everything. We are Málaga, we have to evaluate our performance and be self-critical. We must improve, but I am happy with the work throughout the match.”

Haitam is back

“Haitam has undergone a very long process, we have to adjust the loads with him and take care of him. He will give us a lot of depth and competence. When the squad is tight, if there is no competition you can start to relax. The goal and the sensations he gave are good news, he is accumulating minutes and has not had any relapse.”

Union and demand

“The demand is high and the lads are giving their all. I don't like it when they whistle at one of my players, we are in the most important moment and we have to support them. The fans have given us a point, we have to be demanding, but we are people at the end of the day. There are days when things don’t go right, but we were disorganised throughout. The rival was superior, we have to improve. Now’s the time to prepare for the week ahead for the very important match in Ibiza. We’ll prepare it with the optimism stemming from such great commitment. We need the fans’ support and the critical messages are for the good of the team. It’s important to value what the lads are doing.”