First Team17 October 2026

Gayà: "The team were very solid"

The captain gives his thoughts on the draw with Athletic Club

José Luis Gayà celebrated 350 LaLiga appearances in the game against Athletic Club, and he spoke to VCF Media after the final whistle.

COMING VERY CLOSE TO VICTORY

“We had clear chances to score, but we lacked precision in the final third. However, today -especially in the second half- we saw a team that really went for the win. We struggled in the first half, much like we did in Santander against Racing, and that’s something we need to improve. In the second half, following the substitutions, the fans really got behind us; we pushed hard, and it’s a shame we couldn’t take all three points.”

A FIRST STEP

“This is the right path for us. We need to ensure the team’s reaction comes sooner. We have to start better in the first half, rather than waiting until the second half to make adjustments. With the support of the fans here at Mestalla, we need to hit the ground running from the very beginning of every game. This place has to be a fortress. The fans cheered us on until the very end. We leave here feeling that we could have taken all three points.”

DEFENSIVE SOLIDITY

“It was a very difficult game. Athletic Club are a very good team and really demanded a lot from us physically. However, I think the team performed very well defensively; we allowed them almost no chances, which is a positive point for us. It’s just a shame we couldn’t score, as we created some clear-cut opportunities and got into good attacking positions today. We need to keep building on this. The team were very solid, and we must continue to grow from here.” 

350 LALIGA APPEARANCES

“I've only just found out about it. I didn’t know I’d reached 350 LaLiga matches. Those are very good numbers to have. I’m focused on enjoying every game, making the most of my minutes, and I’m having a great time out on the pitch.”

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