Kike Salas Discusses Sevilla’s Upcoming Match and Team Dynamics

omidbasir- This Wednesday, Kike Salas was the chosen player from Sevilla FC to speak in the press room at the sports city. The defender, who has been a starter for the last seven league matches, is set to start again this Sunday against Getafe. “We are very eager. We come off two challenging matches and I believe the team rallied together, felt the support of our fans, and managed to secure a draw which was positive given how the match unfolded. We have a strong desire to pursue victory this weekend,” began the Sevilla player.

Regarding Almeyda’s suspension, Salas stated, “I am not in a position to judge whether it is fair or not, but the club will address this matter. We fully support our coach and are grateful for his unwavering defense of us at all times.”

On the significance of homegrown players, he remarked, “It is a source of pride for me to wear this jersey, just as it is for all the academy graduates. We carry a unique responsibility that perhaps feels different to those who come from outside. We are aware of what we represent and must give our all; I believe we are stepping up this year.”

Regarding recent refereeing decisions, he noted, “Lately, it seems that the calls have not gone our way, but we only ask for respect and for there to be consistent criteria so that everything feels fair, as we are not receiving much favorable treatment. Sometimes, during a match, a situation unfolds one way and then a different way during our games.”

On dealing with nerves at home, he shared, “It is a complicated situation. The coaching staff urges us to remain calm, as we have faltered in many matches by not keeping our composure and not playing as we wish. However, I believe we are improving in this regard and learning from our mistakes to approach matches from a different perspective.”

He mentioned, “We haven’t discussed sanctions yet; I just found out about it now.” Focused on the upcoming derby, he said, “We are concentrated on the important match this Sunday.”

Reflecting on missed opportunities against direct rivals, he admitted, “Of course, we did not want those two home draws, but given how the matches against Girona and Alavés unfolded, ultimately, every point counts. We are focused on rectifying our mistakes and aiming for three points this weekend.”

As for the team’s morale, he affirmed, “We are calm and focused on our own performance. We cannot afford to look elsewhere, as we must stay on course. Both the coach and the technical team offer us the best advice to improve daily in training and to remain concentrated.”

On his personal performance, he explained, “I started off strong in the initial matches, but I encountered a pubic issue after the Girona game that has been quite bothersome. I have worked diligently every day to be ready for my opportunity. I believe I have been giving my all for the team and I am feeling good.”

Commenting on Almeyda’s expulsion, he stated, “Honestly, I was not aware of the reason for his dismissal, as I believe there was no ill intent on his part, but the club will issue a statement.”

Regarding the draw with Alavés, he said, “We went down to ten men early, and the team undoubtedly wanted to secure three points. However, I think we performed well, gave everything we had, and came together, which was crucial. Some refereeing decisions may have distracted us from the match. Since we cannot control that, we must remain more focused on our performance.”

On potential offers in January, he remarked, “I am not aware; perhaps someone has shown interest in me. I have not spoken to anyone. I only stated that I am happy here at the club I have loved since I was young. My focus is entirely on my club.”

Addressing concerns about defensive weaknesses, he clarified, “We do not want that to happen; we are working to improve. However, I believe that goals conceded are a collective responsibility, not just that of the defense or the goalkeeper. We all need to perform better in these situations. It is disheartening to concede goals, especially as a defender, but I believe we are making progress.”

Finally, on playing without Almeyda, he concluded, “I am not sure if it will be detrimental, but it will be challenging since we are used to having him there for guidance and support. We must face this collectively; there is also a strong coaching staff that will assist us, and he will support us from wherever he can. We are all united in this endeavor.”