Sergio Pellicer, Málaga CF coach, spoke to the media following the 2-1 defeat at Mendizorroza certifying relegation to Primera RFEF.

Firstly, he recognised that “we fought until the end” and “it’s a painful moment on a personal and professional level for the players and the staff. We’re hurt for the people because this is a feeling and a passion and nobody thought it would come to this,” he said.

The team stood up to a very powerful Alavés at their home ground. “In the second half there was a moment when I was telling them on the bench that we were playing against a team fighting for direct promotion and there wasn’t a big difference. Even when we were behind on the scoreboard the team gave their all. We worked to the maximum, we made mistakes and right now I am empty. We have to reflect. With the way we competed today, if we had been consistent, I’m certain we wouldn’t be in this situation,” he reflected.

Lastly, the Malaguista coach sent a message for the future in this drastic situation for Malaguismo: “What the fans want now is to see that duel, those children who have gone to La Rosaleda in this last stretch of the season and have been moved… The club has to get down to work. The important thing is Málaga CF, having a clean mind that excites the fundamental pillar of the Club, which is the fans. Let there be union and not division.”