The coach of Real Oviedo, Guillermo Almada, appeared this morning at a press conference at the Carlos Tartiere Stadium before traveling to San Sebastián, where the team will face Real Sociedad tomorrow.
Almada highlighted the work of his players during the week: “They have trained very well. Their commitment and willingness are something that defines them. We need to sustain the good things we did the other day for a longer time. There is still a lot of the championship left, and we have to try to get three points, even though we know the complexity due to the good form of Real Sociedad.”
Asked about the absence of Santiago Colombatto due to an accumulation of cards and the alternatives to replace him, he said: “We want Cazorla to have a more offensive role. Both Fonseca and Dendoncker can provide that replacement. Either of them can fill the important gap left by ‘Colo.’”
After the last defeat, Almada acknowledged the emotional blow that losing represents but called for the group to react. “Whenever you lose, it hits you. But you have to get up no matter what. These are situations that must be reversed with determination, willingness, and football. It’s not an easy path, and we need to sustain what we are doing well for a longer time and correct the mistakes that weigh us down.”
Regarding the opponent, the coach was clear: “It’s challenging because of the situation and because we’re playing against Real, who have a great squad. These are opponents we should enjoy playing against, as they will push us to the limit. We have to go with the utmost enthusiasm to play a good match and fully believe in the strength of the group.” He added, “Distractions have hit us very hard, as has the opponent’s effectiveness. If there are distractions against Real, they will make us pay dearly. There are things we do well, the hardest things, like taking the lead on the scoreboard and creating chances, but we need to sustain it over time. The only way is through hard work.”
Asked about the pending resolution of the match not played against Rayo, the Uruguayan coach stated the following: “We are aligned with the club’s authorities, and it’s logical that the decision should go in our favor, but that doesn’t depend on us. We’ll see the final resolution. I’m focused on Real Sociedad, beyond the comments we make among ourselves. The club is pursuing the justice that must be implemented,” he concluded.