Carlos Corberán: "Our mentality is to be at our best level against Sevilla FC"

Before Friday night’s game against Sevilla FC, Valencia CF coach Carlos Corberán held a press conference.

Comments made by FC Barcelona’s Rodri

“Those were completely unfortunate remarks; they did not come from a position of respect for fellow professionals. As soon as they were made, José Luis Gayà took the initiative to speak with him, and Rodri has issued a public apology. We accept it and consider it appropriate because, even in a private conversation between teammates, we are aware of what we represent. He is a very important player -one who even received an ovation at Mestalla for winning the World Cup with Spain. We accept the apology because it is the least one can do after such unfortunate comments.”

Consequences of a potential defeat on Friday

“I focus on what is within my control, which is ensuring Valencia CF have a great game tomorrow -and I am convinced that we will. Beyond that, I never dwell on things outside my control. It was up to me to give my best from the moment I arrived, during one of Valencia CF’s most difficult periods, and I gave it my all to achieve the objective set for me. Last season was one of change; we lost Mamardashvili, Mosquera, and Barrenechea. The season played out in two distinct phases: In the first, we struggled to perform, but in the second -with the additions of Guido and Sadiq- the team showed great competitive spirit and had an excellent second half of the season, matching the club's highest points total in six years. We haven't started well this season, and had a demanding schedule of three games in a week, followed by a match against FC Barcelona. Now, we are approaching the game with the mindset of playing at our true level, competing against Sevilla FC, and giving 100% in the areas we can control.”

The dressing room's commitment, and statements by Carmelo del Pozo

“That question is for the players; I value actions. I see the team training every day and working to turn things around when they aren't going well. I respect Carmelo del Pozo; he has vast experience, though we all have our own opinions on things. Perspectives from within the club carry weight, whereas views from people outside can carry bias. The problem is that when something is repeated often enough -even if it isn't true- it starts to sound like the truth. Every Valencia CF player who had even a 0.1% chance of traveling to Seville tomorrow has tried to be able to do so. Rioja has a foot issue -specifically with his calcaneus- causing discomfort when he takes steps. The pain has worsened and prevents him from running. His boot has been cut away so much that there’s hardly anything left of it; we even removed studs to try and relieve the pressure on his foot. The only option left would be playing without a boot, but since that isn't possible, he isn't traveling to Seville tomorrow. Nevertheless, he is giving his all to help the team get out of this situation. Guido pushed to train because he wants to be available tomorrow, but the time remaining means he hasn't been medically cleared yet -though he’s willing to play regardless. I won't allow that, however, because I care about his recovery and getting the squad back to full strength. De Haas has trained with the team for one day, and the signs are positive, so he is traveling tomorrow. The squad's commitment is absolute.”

Confidence from the club

"Our confidence and drive remain unchanged, but at football clubs we depend on results. I know what my job is, the reason why I came to Valencia CF, what we've achieved, and what we still need to accomplish."

His squad

“I see a squad that was incomplete, only being finalised towards the end of the transfer window; a squad that hasn't played a single match with fewer than five or six absentees. That incomplete squad has competed in an incomplete manner. Yet, when I see training sessions like today’s -with De Haas still dealing with his ankle issue, Guido coming back from injury, Rioja trying to train, plus Sadiq, Diakhaby, and Foulquier- and I observe sessions like today’s or yesterday’s, the squad project confidence, even while being fully aware that things haven't gone our way during these first two weeks of the season. We are well aware of our responsibility and do not shy away from it. I see great competitive potential in this squad. I have faith in the squad's ability.”

The medical team

“Injuries happen in football, and we all feel the impact of them. What we need to do is implement the best form of treatment and avoid making short-sighted decisions. All decisions are made in consultation with the players. We’ve had a demanding schedule this season, and that has had consequences. But we all have to hold ourselves to high standards.”

Free agents available to sign

“I focus on the players that I have, and on getting the best out of them.”

The fans

“The fans want to see us win, and when we don’t, they are bound to be frustrated; we must accept that criticism as part of our professional responsibility -just as that same responsibility drives us to give our best to turn the situation around.” 

Sevilla FC

“They’ve started very well. Last season they managed to turn around a difficult situation. They’ve had a very intense summer and done a good job; tomorrow’s match will be a demanding one, and we’re eager to put in a better performance than in our last two games.”

His own situation

“I feel strong, motivated and willing to do well, so that the fans see a different image from the team.”

Harvey Elliott

“His preseason was unconventional; he arrived on the final day of the transfer window. He is a difference-maker as a player, and physically he is getting closer to peak fitness. Valencia CF fans are going to really enjoy seeing his abilities.”