UD Almería, next rival
“One of the toughest teams in the division, the challenge is a huge one. It’s the last match of the year, and it’s important to understand that the final whistle is what truly ends it. We’re focused on what lies ahead, a very difficult match.”
“It’s going to be a different game from the other day (Albacete). They’re a very physical team, they’ll want to press us high, and they’re capable of sustaining that intensity. What happened the other day gives us confidence to reinforce our idea. We know where we can take steps forward, and that’s what we’re focused on.”
Starting-11 and substitutions
“More than doubts, we think in terms of certainties. What we saw the other day is the direction of what we want to see. We can’t expect to win matches with just 11 players. That’s the reality, we have five substitutions, and you can practically change almost half the team from one half to the other. There are players who are specialising in playing second halves. The physical level is very even. It will be important to reach the final stretch of the match and, at that point, have our players come on and make the difference. Many times, starting matches is overrated. Some players can be more important playing 25 or 30 minutes.”
Home and away
“We have to try to do the same things away from home and at home. It can’t happen that we change our behaviour so much. At home, we stick to the same idea. There’s also the aspect that, when we take the lead, we mustn’t become a different team. As hosts, we also have to maintain that idea firmly.”
“The opponent plays too and can force us into situations where we’re pushed back. If that happens, let it be because they cause it, not because we do. Repeating what we want to be many times makes us more effective. When you change things, you don’t repeat behaviours. And right now, it’s important to repeat behaviours many times. We are not going to take a single step back.”
Fans
“We always ask for that loyal, constant, and strong support, because we understand that with a ‘12th man’ it’s easier for things to go well. And it’s important that this comes from the inside out. You can’t reproach our players for their effort, they’re a young team with a lot of energy. Given the day and the time of the match, I expect that ‘number 12’ player; we’re going to feel it, and it can make the difference in difficult moments.”
Annual review
“The Club has set out a clear and firm plan, which is to commit to the Academy. In 2025, some of our academy players have established themselves in the division. And that plan isn’t just talked about, it’s put into action. You can see it week after week. We have one of the youngest squads in the division. Such young players are gaining significant value in the category, players who are now established in the Second Division. That’s something I’d really like to highlight.”
“On a personal level, 2025 was a year I enjoyed tremendously with the reserve team. Not only because of the title and promotion, but because of what was happening during the matches. As coaches, we’re fortunate to experience firsthand what the players do. As a coach, I really enjoyed last season. A great year.”