Cádiz CF, solid rival
“Since the arrival of their new coach, they have only suffered one defeat, in their last match. They were built to fight for promotion, they are a very solid defensive team with a lot of variety in attack, many connections with Javi (Ontiveros), and some very important players. Their game is based on solidity and offensive talent. As for us, we need to be strong at La Rosaleda and approach the game with great enthusiasm, especially after our second-half performance the other day, to keep moving forward on our path.”
Ontiveros
“He is a Malaguista with a big heart. I coached him in the youth categories when we won the championship, and we know the talent he has. He is at his best right now, one of the most impactful players in attack, goals, assists... A homegrown player, one of our own, and I wish him all the best after this match.”
Ramón
“He’s strong, a player who takes care of his mental and physical health, a true professional. He loves this sport and is fully committed to being a footballer. We wish him a speedy recovery. He has been through this before, just like Haitam. It’s a tough blow, and the team must step up. Hopefully, we can dedicate the victory to Ramón on Sunday.”
Injuries and suspensions
“The time is now. This is football, it’s time for everyone to step up and find solutions. We have 13 matches left, and suspensions, injuries, and the 'virus' of youth national team call-ups will come. This is the moment for everyone. I’m not only focused on the starting line-up but also on the importance of substitutions to maintain our energy. We need to give confidence to the players who have had fewer minutes.”
Arriaza
“He's a hard worker, humble, understands the game, and wants to be a footballer. I liked his training sessions this week, and he will be with us to help the team.”
Following in Peiró’s footsteps
“I have mixed feelings, due to nostalgia, and a great sense of satisfaction for surpassing Muñiz, a great coach, and being a small part of this club's history, with Don Joaquín Peiró as a reference. It's a dream, and I hope to add more matches to my record. It's a real honour to be the coach with the second highest number of matches. Thanks to the fans and everyone who has supported me on this journey.”
Passionate match
“I expect Cádiz to be like the team we've seen in recent matches, similar to the one that played in Santander, a very solid team defensively. As for us, we need to be ourselves, daring, brave, vertical, dynamic, and show our best version. I anticipate a very tough match, with two very passionate fanbases.”
Fans
“Rain on Sunday? The people will be like always. We have the most loyal fans in Spain. Last year, we made significant progress. In Almería, we felt their support, and even if it rains, the sun will shine in Málaga at that time.”