Real Oviedo faces its first preseason match this Saturday at the Carlos Tartiere, where they will take on Deportivo de La Coruña. On the eve of the match, Julián Calero appeared in the press room at El Requexón to analyze the first weeks of work, assess the transfer market, and explain the identity he wants to instill in the team ahead of the season's start.
The blue coach began by giving a very positive assessment of his arrival at the club. Although he has only been in charge of the team for a few weeks, he acknowledged that his adaptation has been much easier than expected thanks to his familiarity with both Real Oviedo and the city. "I should say that I am adapting, but that's not true. I have the advantage of knowing the Club and the city. These have been very good weeks, and we are focused on conveying our work philosophy to the players," he explained.
One of the most repeated messages during his appearance was the need to build a team with a very defined identity. Calero wants an Oviedo that is recognizable from day one, intense in pressing, solid in defense, and with personality when in possession of the ball. "I want people to enjoy watching their team compete, with a very clear idea. We do not give up on being a strong team without the ball or a powerful one with it. We are trying to automate many aspects because the start of the competition is very close," he noted.
When asked about the season's objectives, the coach avoided mentioning the classic target of 50 points to ensure survival. "I don't like that kind of rhetoric. My goal is for the team to be ready for the first matchday and for the Tartiere to see a team with a different competitive spirit, with a winning mentality," he stated.
Another key topic was the transfer market. Although he expressed satisfaction with the signings made so far, he made it clear that the squad still needs several reinforcements to face a demanding competition like the Second Division with guarantees. "I am happy with what is coming in, but I am demanding. We need more players because this league is very long," he assured.
"We are trying to bring in players for the forward positions, as well as for the back and midfield. With Juan's arrival, we have strengthened the left-back position, but we have to be prepared until the last day of the market. Whoever is here has to give their all for this team," he added.
Regarding this Saturday's friendly against Deportivo de La Coruña, Calero admitted that he is especially excited to return to the Carlos Tartiere, this time as Real Oviedo's coach, although he acknowledged that the team is still in a very early stage of preparation.
"I have come here many times as an opponent, and I have always been treated with great respect. I am very eager to return, although I am concerned about the level we can offer because we have only played one preseason match. I would have liked to arrive with more preparation, but we will give it our all, and I want all the players to get minutes," he explained.
Finally, the coach spoke about Santi Cazorla's retirement and revealed that they had a long conversation before the Oviedo native made his final decision.
"I spoke with him for an hour and laid out all the possibilities. I offered him the chance to continue as a player and also to join the coaching staff. The decision was entirely his, and I completely respect it. I am convinced that he will remain very connected to the club, and we will have a great relationship," he concluded.
