Statements by Roberto Rosales

Upward trajectory

“The team has moved upwards in the last three games. The last home match was particularly good, and that’s the line we need to follow. From now on at home we need to try and make as few mistakes as possible and earn as many points as we can. We’re up against a very difficult rival, but with all due respect we want to win and will do everything we can to make that happen. We’re in a situation now where we have to minimise errors, continue to work hard and be stronger than ever at home to claim as many points as possible”.

Confidence

“The match against Barcelona gave us the confidence we needed, and the victory against Celta reaffirmed us. I think in Villarreal we played a good game, despite not winning, but now we have the opportunity at home to return to winning ways, knowing we’re capable of doing so, and bring joy to the fans”.

Deportivo

“A very difficult rival, with important players upfront who have been fundamental in where the team has gone and come back from. However, at our ground we’re getting ready to put on a strong performance, and play a similar match as we did against Celta, with great intensity, to ensure the three points stay at home. We now need to view every match like that (as a final). It’s the only way we’ll get out of this position. We’re working well and are aware of the responsibility we have. It’s about hard work and approaching this match as the first final of those that remain”:

Sensations

“We know that we’ve fallen short. Many of us know that our performances have not been to our best level, but over the last three weeks, we’ve seen a different team. We’ve been self-critical and know we must give more. The team needs to improve which is what we’re doing. There’s a long way to go in the League competition, and we’re not going to give up”.

Personal situation

“I don’t think I started LaLiga in the best way, but in recent matches I’ve felt better, with the dynamic of the team that has been growing. Everything has to do with confidence, the team has definitely improved, and everything acts as an influence. On Sunday we have the chance to reaffirm these positive sensations and transform them into points”.

Team and fans

“We’re all in this together, and are all going for it as one. We’re a close-knit group, a team that is united enough to get out of this situation. The fans’ support is a definite plus for us. We are the first ones affected as we don’t go out to lose or want to be in this position. We’re working extremely hard to bring joy to the fans, and the reception from them is very important to us”.