Pellicer: “Who would have thought we’d be in this situation?”

Good moment

“Who would have thought in the preseason, with everything going on, that we’d be in this situation? There’s a greater degree of calm at an institutional level, which in turn gives us more peace of mind in our work. This is a new group, we’re getting to know one another, and we have to lead the way. Rivals who come up against Málaga have to run far more than us, the physical wear is brutal. This is a team with hunger and enthusiasm, we know where we’ve come from and where we want to go. These 13 points have to give us confidence, the group is united, players go on and off and compete at the highest level. Fresh players join the game to boost the sense of calm in an incredibly difficult game. It costs a lot to secure victories, we know the sacrifice and hard work involved. We must make the most of this positive dynamic and ensure it lasts as long as possible. We know what it costs and so we must appreciate the hard work and willingness of the players, the competition in a healthy group, full of hunger and enthusiasm. From then on, it’s about work, work and more work, with immense determination”.

Juande

“I remember my first match, against Ponferradina, and we knew Juande from the lower ranks, and knew how hard he worked. He is a true reflection of what we want from homegrown players, humility, hard work, and someone who is serious about the flag. Yesterday I said that we have to believe in ourselves when it comes to set pieces. I was very happy with the transition, the steal. He believes and reaches the area. We know exactly what he’s going to give. That comes from hard work, he’s won his place on the team, the number 5, and now it’s about performing and competing daily. He’s no longer seen as a player who has moved up from the reserve team, he’s a first team player, and knows it perfectly well. Juande is a true reflection of the players who move up the ranks”.