Firstly, Bernd Schuster talks about the importance of tomorrow’s game against Elche CF, which would secure a place in the First Division next season: “We want to make the most out of this home game and continue the positive results from recent matches at our ground. It’s crucial that we play good football tomorrow in order to mathematically secure our place in the elite next season. We’re up against a difficult rival who really needs the three points, but we need to remain focused on ourselves and keep calm. We’ve seen so many things happen in football matches, and nothing is ever certain. I’m confident that we’ll see the Málaga that we all want to see tomorrow. Elche have shown a good degree of order over the season; they’re a tough rival who struggle to generate scoring opportunities. However it’s not going to be easy so we can’t rest on our laurels. We don’t want a match of highs and lows tomorrow.”
The Blue and Whites’ coach discusses the line-up for the clash with Elche: “I said earlier in the week that Sergio Sánchez might not be match-fit in time. He’ll be raring to go next weekend as he’s improved a great deal. Weligton will be in action as Angeleri is suspended, and Iakovenko will take Amrabat’s place. There are players such as Pawlowski and Casado who it’s important to give them a chance to play before the League competition ends. They’ve put up with a lot since their arrival, not created any problems and really deserve to get out there and play.”
Schuster talks about his future: “Everything needs to be sorted out so I can relax. Continuity is not a major problem, and is certainly something that can be resolved. We’re completely focused on these last games of the season at the moment, and when the competition is over, then I can talk about everything else. There is still time right up until the last match, so I’m sure there won’t be any problems. Now’s not the time to talk about next year. The structure of the team is very clear, not a lot of changes need to be made. In the last few conversations that we’ve had, the directors didn’t want to start making preparations and talk about the team’s continuity. I’m not worried at all, as everything will be resolved in time.”
Finally, Schuster comments on negotiations surrounding Amrabat: “The directors have tried everything possible to ensure Amrabat stays at Málaga CF for another season. They told me that it’s a great possibility, but nothing has been decided as yet.”
