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Press conference

Peybernes: “I’m a club player and want to bring my experience”

The French centre-back was officially presented today at La Rosaleda. “I want to play as much as possible and have a good season”, he said to the media.

Accompanied by Manolo Gaspar, who welcomed him, wishing him “every success and for injuries to be kind to him”, Mathieu Peybernes highlighted the work of the Sporting Director and a coach he already knows, José Alberto: “Both Manolo and the coach have done things very well. Whilst assessing the option, I loved it. The coach was with me at Sporting, I felt this move was a good option and I made the decision to come here”.

“Knowing the coach doesn’t mean you’re going to play. But it’s good to know how he works and does things, and he also knows what I can contribute. I want to be a part of this new project and do my bit to allow the Club to grow”, said Peybernes who is excited about the upcoming season: “I want to play as much as possible and have a good season. There are young players and those with more experience, so with this combination we can do some good things. We are really keen to perform well, we know what’s at stake and I’m here to help the Club. Everyone will have their opportunity and it will be important. The dressing room is great. The young players are learning and the older ones are doing very well”.

The defender says he’s a “club player”. “My heart is now with Málaga, which is where I wanted to be. I want to bring my experience, I’m a professional, humble player and don’t like making mistakes on the pitch”. His signing reinforces central defence. “I work well with Lombán and the young players, we’ll compete to play on Monday and the coach will make his decision. I’ll fight to be in the starting-11, but no-one’s place is secure”.

In regard to his reception, “the Club and my teammates gave me such a warm welcome. From the first day it was great, I’ve not seen much of the city yet, but everyone has told me that it’s beautiful”. Speaking about the fans, Peybernes is clear: “They will support us. They’ve had some tough times. Such a large fanbase helps you a lot. I also thank them for their messages of affection. May they always be with us and proud of the team and what we do on the pitch. We’ll give our all for them”.

Finally, Manolo Gaspar talked about the player’s signing: “We were clear last year, when we tried to close the deal. We know him from other leagues, and we believe he’s at a perfect time in his career for Málaga. We needed experience, he knows the division, he’s aggressive and La Rosaleda won’t weigh him down. I think we’ve done a good job”.