Remembering the promotion goal
“I've seen the play millions of times. Each cross is with the intention of creating the best possible situation for my teammates and hoping we’ll get a goal. The ball reached the end line, and the area was full of forwards. I placed the cross where things could happen, and the most beautiful thing occurred.”
Four new faces
“They are wonderful teammates, and they’re making an effort to adapt quickly. The dressing room has welcomed them well; they are very professional. The city is perfect for settling in. They should know that there are high expectations and that we hope they can help us as soon as possible.”
The team is on form
“The group has returned at a very high level; you can tell that we finished later than other teams. The feelings are very positive, the team is training great every day and showing very good performances in the matches. You can see that the team knows each other well, and everyone wants to contribute. I’m pleased with how we’re training and competing.”
Three weeks’ holiday
“You can't return to a preseason happier than this year, in an unforgettable way. The short length of the holiday doesn't matter because you come back with unparalleled excitement. My teammates felt the same, and it's evident in our daily routine.”
Unity between the team and fans
“I came with a very clear idea of bringing Málaga back to where it deserves to be. A city and a club like Málaga, with its passionate fanbase, should be higher up. I came with the excitement of playing in a playoff and achieving promotion. I had very clear ideas, we started off very well, and the fans responded spectacularly. What was created between the team and the fans was crucial for achieving our goal. You can see it in the number of season ticket holders and the excitement that's building. The fans are incredibly excited, and so is the team.”
Short preseason and in good shape
“I’m surprised by the level with which the team has returned. Some people might say that we’ve only played three matches and that the preseason is short, but time will tell if we’re right or wrong. We’re training very hard and have a clear idea of how we want to play. There are no doubts, and we are completely convinced in what we’re doing.”
The core of the team remains
“If the core has been maintained, it’s because there is confidence in it. I have complete faith in all my teammates; they will deliver and share the same excitement and desire to help Málaga achieve its goal.”
LaLiga Hypermotion at a top level
“Looking at the list of teams we’ll be competing against, it’s wonderful to see how many of them are from the First Division and have such a rich history. It’s exciting to visit stadiums that will provide unforgettable experiences. We’re approaching the season with immense enthusiasm; it’s going to be a beautiful and demanding challenge.”
Healthy competition for the position
“I get along incredibly well with Dani Sánchez; he’s a fantastic player both on and off the pitch. We didn’t have any issues last year; on the contrary, we supported each other throughout. He’s one of the best teammates I’ve had in that position.”
Málaga, a lucky city
“I remembered Málaga as something special because I was promoted here with Castellón. It’s nothing like Málaga’s promotion though, because experiencing it with these fans is something I will remember for the rest of my life.”
Training in the holidays
“I knew that if we achieved the goal, the challenge would be even greater. If you want to be at the top you need to raise your game even more if possible. In the weeks leading up to the preseason, I wanted to step up and push myself further. I have good feelings about it, and gradually, it will become clearer.”