Luis García is optimistic ahead of the tie with Valencia at Mestalla (Saturday, 8:45pm CET)
Villarreal head coach Luis García has appeared in front of the media to analyse the upcoming derby against Valencia (Saturday, 8:45pm CET) at Mestalla: “We’re going into the match with the idea of winning and getting more points. We have to get closer to our rivals ahead of us. It’s a derby against a good side, who struggled to get going this season for various reasons. Mentally, we’re good, but we need a win to reflect all our hard work. The team is looking forward to the game and more importantly is ready for it.”
The Yellows head coach is expecting an intense game: “A derby always gives extra motivation. We have 18 finals left and the derby is the first of them. There is a lot of tension in LaLiga matches, as it is a tough league, with little in between the teams. We have to be as motivated for this match as for the upcoming ones. A win against Valencia would give us this extra motivation. Hopefully we’ll enjoy this weekend and we’ll be able to taste victory.”
Regarding the upcoming opponents, the coach underlined the potential of Valencia’s counter-attacking moves: “Valencia are a tough opponent, they have good players. They always play with two up front and we need to be wary of their counter-attacks. We need to be tight at the back because they’re one of the teams in the league who play the most balls into the box.”
The ‘groguet’ manager showed his excitement ahead of the games in the next few weeks: “We have to see each match as an opportunity to move up the table. We are a team fighting a difficult situation but I see the team as much more stronger than they look. We have to play with confidence and the quality footballers that we have need to show their level. We have to face each match with excitement and an urge to do well. That is crucial to get out of this current situation. We are capable of beating Valencia.”
To listen to García’s press conference (in Spanish), just click the video tab, below the main photo.
