Corberán: “I expect a demanding, intense game against Deportivo Alavés”

Valencia CF coach Carlos Corberán spoke ahead of Matchday 36 in LALIGA EA SPORTS, which sees his side play Deportivo Alavés at Mendizorroza.

Players out

“There's a protocol that prevents André Almeida from playing for the next six days. Javi Guerra will also be out due to an accumulation of yellow cards. Added to that absence is Foulquier, who will be missing due to a viral infection. The last player with a doubt over him is Aarons, who will travel and we will decide on him tomorrow, due to his calf discomfort.”

Switching formation

“It's always a possibility. Although what matters are the team's principles. You can attack with a clear identity and with different structures. The same goes for defending. Tomorrow, three centre backs will play; how we deploy them on the pitch is another matter. We have players with the versatility to adapt to different positions. Having three centre backs doesn't mean we'll play with a back five. I evaluate the intensity there will be, the competitive nature of the match, more than the formation.”

Sadiq

“There is no clause that could affect my decision to pick a player. The only one like that was for the Real Sociedad game, and I already said that if he were available, he would have played. He has total availability to start or finish a game.”

Sergi Canós

“He's travelling tomorrow and will be available. He's been carrying abdominal discomfort for some time now. It's being treated like other discomforts that arise during the season. It seems like the discomfort has worsened, and he's taking care of every detail. Yesterday, it had a greater impact. Depending on how well he can tolerate it, the decision will be made to endure it or wait to resolve it surgically.”

Deportivo Alavés

“I expect a very demanding and intense game. The intensity will be at a maximum. That aspect has been part of the preparation for the match. Alavés are versatile in defence, pressing, moving quickly, attacking the box a lot, and it's going to be a very high-tempo and intense match. The team are prepared for all of that.”

Javi Guerra's absence

“I believe in the opportunities that all the players we have give us. Identity comes first, ahead of any player. The team are very aligned in understanding how to compete and train.”

Europe

“All the players are more than ready to play the game. They all have the skills to be part of a competitive team tomorrow.”

Lucas Núñez

“He's going to travel with the squad. He's a VCF Academy central midfielder who can adapt to the type of game we're going to play. He's a player who has been able to compete in the games I've seen with the reserve team. He can play as a number 6, but he can also play higher up. He has a competitive nature that defines him as a player and fits with the demands of tomorrow's match.”

Message

“The team are going to have absolute mental, physical, and tactical commitment to getting the three points. That's the mentality we have because that's my feeling. Every game is tremendously important. This team doesn't compromise when it comes to competing. It's our responsibility.”

Affection from the fans

“I don't consider myself a hero. I'm a person who dedicates himself to his job. I'm from this city, and I take great responsibility in the things I do. You have to give to the fans, and never ask for anything. I'm going to give my best so they feel proud of the players and the coach.”

Pepelu

“He'll be a starter tomorrow. In the last two games, he's taken a step forward in his performance. I've seen him do things on the pitch in training, taking that step forward, and helping the team achieve our identity and competitive character.”