The Catalan defender highlighted the need for everyone to join forces in order to face a demanding season with guarantees
Sergi Cardona appeared before the media on Wednesday in the press room at the José Manuel Llaneza Training Ground, where he analysed Villarreal CF’s current situation and outlined his objectives for this season.
Assessment of the squad
“The team is convinced that the squad is very competitive and that there is a lot of quality, and that makes us raise the level of demand. We believe we are capable of competing against any side. The squad has a lot of quality and there is strong competition for every position.”
Fighting to be in Europe every season
“Villarreal CF’s objective every season has to be to fight for the Champions League places. We are ready for that. Even so, we must bear in mind that this is football and the league is very long and very competitive. We know it will not be easy, but we are prepared.”
Personal objectives
“My ambition this season is to help the team. This year we will need to be more united than ever, because there will be difficult matches, demanding games against very strong opponents. Above all, this season we need to think about the team, about what it needs, and we will need everyone. Personally, I am very motivated, eager to compete in every match, to improve and to raise my level.”
An attacking full-back role
“Last year it worked well for us. The head coach gives us freedom to push forward and help the team. As full-backs, we are delighted to be able to join in attack and support the team. One of the key instructions last year was to get plenty of players into the box. We managed to be a very attacking side and I think that is one of this team’s hallmarks.”
A demanding September
“It is a dream to be able to play in the Champions League, because I had always seen it as something very distant. This year it is also important not to think too much about what is to come, but to focus on the here and now. Winning matches in this league is very difficult, so we all need to be fully focused on each game and not looking too far ahead. The focus must always be on the next match.”
Seven points from nine
“It has been a very good start to the season for the team. It is true that the other day we left Vigo with a bitter taste, but seven points is a strong start. We have to focus on the positives and use that to build confidence in order to continue in this vein. The next game, against Atlético de Madrid, will be tough because they have also had a difficult start and will want to put in a strong performance in front of their fans, but we are ready to compete against anyone.”
