Happy and proud
“For me it’s a pride and honour to be at the helm of the Málaga team. I had the opportunity of defending the colours as a player. I think we did great things in those years. I’ve also shared a lot with Arnau, he knows me as a player and as a person. I’ve been part of the Club’s coaching team for two and a half years and I’m thrilled to be here”.
Right decision
“I think this decision was made as I’ve worked very closely with the team. I’m very close to the players now and I know the team well. I’m able to take this project forward. I’m convinced that today I’m here on my own merit, nobody else’s. I’ve proved this over a long time”.
Privileged
“It’s a real honour for me to be in this position. Few have had the privilege of being here for so long. To have that recognition, and know that the people love and support me at this time, says it all”.
Training, and the support of the President
“Juande is an excellent person and a hard-worker. Over the years, I’ve learnt as much as I can from Javi Gracia and Juande. Now a new phase is beginning. President Al-Thani sees it clearly. He’s seen me working with the group for two and a half years. I think that amongst all the options, he made the right choice. I would like to thank him for the confidence he’s given me, as it shows that the work I’ve been doing within the team has been reflected”.
Solid and competitive team
“Those who have seen me play know what I was like on the pitch. I will convey to the players what I want from them as coach, as a footballer on the field of play and what the fans want to see. People want to see their team compete, I therefore want to see a solid team, convinced they will go out there and win. We must keep working hard and assure the players and the fans that we are Málaga, a family that goes hand in hand. From there, the team will be seen on the pitch”.
Fans’ support
“On the field of play, fans will see a competitive, committed team. We need the support of the fans at La Rosaleda. They are our other team. The players are the ones in action, but those who pile the pressure on and strike fear into opponents coming to La Rosaleda, are the fans. I will pass on to the players this passion and fight to want to win, triumph and achieve important things. It’s crucial that the fans are behind the team”.
