The Valencian coach previews the Mini Submarine’s upcoming clash against Alcorcón (Sunday, 4pm CEST)
The Valencian coach previews the Mini Submarine’s upcoming clash against AD Alcorcón (Sunday, 4pm CEST)
Villarreal B head coach David Albelda spoke to V Play to preview the Mini Submarine’s upcoming fixture against AD Alcorcón, corresponding to Matchday 33 of Primera Federación, which will be played this Sunday at 4pm CEST at the Estadio Santo Domingo.
The Valencian coach began by highlighting the team’s strong form, as they remain in the play-off places: “When you look at the table and the team’s performances, there is every reason to be happy. At the start of the season there were doubts, because you depend a lot on the development of young players, but now the team is showing good signs and we are very excited about what lies ahead.”
Albelda also underlined the players’ development: “Rejuvenating the squad was a club decision, as was promoting and accelerating the development of young players, and this year it is working well. It is great news for everyone. Some players have been involved with the first team, have made their debuts in LaLiga and the Champions League, and that is exactly the purpose of reserve teams. In that sense, we can be satisfied.”
Regarding the recent win over Algeciras, the Villarreal B coach put the result into perspective and stressed the importance of overall performance: “The 4-0 win gives you a sense of superiority, but there have been matches where we created just as much and drew. The other day we created a lot, but at 1-0 the game was more balanced than the scoreline suggests. We analyse the overall picture and the day-to-day work. The balance is positive, but there is still a long way to go.”
On the team’s ambition, Albelda admitted that Villarreal B want to fight for a play-off spot in the final stretch: “The main objective is to help players develop, and that is happening. But now, given our position, we need to make a final push to try and secure a place in the play-offs. We have to be ambitious, as that also helps us grow as a team and as players.”
The coach also praised the commitment of the entire squad: “The season has been very good from day one. The players have always worked at their maximum. Everyone deserves a 10, especially those who play less, because thanks to them the level of competition is very high and that helps the group grow.”
On the opposition, Albelda expects a tough challenge against an Alcorcón side still chasing their objectives: “It is one of their last chances to get into the play-offs. They are a team that was recently in Segunda and they have a very strong squad. We are expecting a very difficult match, as it is every week.”
Finally, the Villarreal B coach emphasised the importance of maintaining the team’s identity and limiting mistakes: “We will approach the game in the same way as always, with humility, respecting the opponent, but trying to impose ourselves, with intensity and aiming to play more in their half. They have some absences, but they have a squad capable of replacing them at the same level. We have to control all aspects of the game, avoid mistakes and compete well as a team.”
