Ilyas Chaira Discusses Team Dynamics and Upcoming Challenges Post-Break

Ilyas Chaira spoke on behalf of Real Oviedo following the team’s return to training after the winter break. The forward acknowledged that the hiatus was crucial for alleviating tensions and restoring energy within a squad that ended the previous year amidst changes and external noise. He stated, “At least for me, I was able to disconnect a bit, and I believe the group benefited as well. These holidays were valuable for recharging our batteries,” and he admitted that the pause was necessary, adding, “We needed this time to step away from everything we were experiencing, and the rest will be beneficial for us.”

With the team back to work, Chaira noted that the players have quickly embraced Guillermo Almada’s message: “It was evident in our match against Celta that we adapted to his ideas quite swiftly,” he explained, clearly outlining the team’s desired identity. He mentioned, “He encourages us to press high, maintain a high level of intensity, and recover the ball after losing possession. Above all, he emphasizes that intensity is paramount.”

The winger also addressed the arrival of Nico Fonseca and the integration process for the new teammate: “Over time, he will settle in, but we will support him and assist him in any way possible. The most important thing is that he feels calm and happy with us here.”

Looking ahead, the team is preparing for a significant league match against Mendizorroza, approaching it with focus and the ambition to start the year positively: “We take it one game at a time, but this is a very important match to begin the year well and in the best possible way.”

Finally, Chaira interpreted the coach’s comments regarding the lack of offensive volume as a call to be more aggressive in the opponent’s half: “I think he is referring to attacking more and increasing our volume of attacks. That’s why we press high, to recover the ball there and create more attacking opportunities.”