Pellicer: “There are things we do well, but we need to keep improving”

Analysis of the point

“We started the game well. We knew how they would play and when they would press. Our initial press was effective, but when they played with their striker, they would offload the ball and advance into our half. That’s how the goal came about; we were wearing them down beforehand. We needed to do that to hurt them in the second half. That goal gave them a boost. I told the team at halftime that the goal would come. Now we’ve done the most difficult part, we can't play finals from the first match. We need to stay calm. We weren't organised enough on the attack, and we need to adjust and realise what this category demands. This gives us a good roadmap for what’s ahead. There are things we do well, and others that are costing us. That goal came from our own mistake, and their goal was also due to an error on our part. We need to minimise these mistakes.”

Keeping up the hard work

“When we scored the goal, the game opened up. They had a shot off the crossbar, and we needed to be more organised. We continue to convey energy, and the team keeps trying. We know we’re going to face challenges and need to keep working. Next week, we might see four or five new players on the pitch. They need to work daily and improve individually so that it benefits the team collectively.”

Close to victory

“When playing at home, our duty is to secure the victory. The feelings are better than in the match against Ferrol. We need to have a bit more calm; the opponent also plays. We had more than 60% possession, and it should be used to create damage. The players gave their all. If we had shown more order and patience on the attack, we would have been closer to victory than they were.”

Situation after Lobete substitution

“We’ll have to wait and see; he injured his foot. Haitam isn’t at 100%, but the recovery process has been accelerated. If we hadn’t drawn the game, he would have come on as a wing-back. If Lobete hadn’t asked to be substituted, we would have needed to strengthen the midfield. He still has some way to go from his current situation, but it’s a good sign. He gave it a try, and that’s what we want.”

Special goal for Dioni

“I’m so happy for him. We had a double reason today: to return to professional football in our stadium and to dedicate the victory to Dioni’s father. He trained for only two days; emotions sometimes lead us to make decisions. Yesterday, he scored three goals in training. I’m very glad for him because it’s very emotional given what he’s been through. As for competition upfront, with Roko, Dioni, and Castel, we can play with two strikers. We need to adjust our structure according to our idea. The beauty of a squad is that when one player is on the pitch, another has to wait. The pitch doesn’t lie, and everyone will have their opportunities.”

Midfield

“We’ll play with the 11 players who are in the best form. Luismi has been through a process, and today he had the chance to come in under different match circumstances, adding some solidity. We had to play more exposed. He’ll have a good week; Ramón is also improving, Sangalli was set to come on today, and Izan is also available. We’ll keep everyone engaged.”

Closure of the transfer window

“We’ll wait and see. It’s good that it’ll end this week. This includes the situations with Kevin and Lobete. Last week, I thought everything was settled, and it’s been a calm preseason. We know how football works, and anything can happen until the last moment.”