Matías Almeyda Discusses Upcoming Match and Team Dynamics

Matías Almeyda has appeared in a press conference to evaluate the upcoming match against Girona. The coach welcomes back players Azpilicueta, Gudelj, and Nianzou to face a team that plays well and possesses quality players, stating that Girona has a clear system in place and lacks the pressure that Sevilla currently faces. He describes the match as “difficult, like all others. For us, every match is a final, and tomorrow’s game will be yet another final, especially given the current state of the tournament and our last performance.”

Regarding his future, the ‘Pelado’ shared his thoughts: “If I stop to think about whether my position is questioned, I would be weak. I am a fighter and will remain until I am told otherwise. If I am no longer deemed useful to Sevilla, I would not demand any money, as that is not my interest. I am here for a different reason, and I have stated this multiple times. As a coach, my only wish is for this team to finish strong and secure our safety in the league, as it is a matter of urgency for many teams. I am putting all my effort into this. If it does not work out and they believe a change is necessary, I will not be one to complain or cause harm to the club—neither by sentiment nor by action. Just as I came with my bag, I will leave with it. I have been a nomad since I was 15, and today I want to be here; I want to fulfill my contract.”

“I wish to see Sevilla in a better position, without having to explain errors every time we meet. I would love to come and say, ‘Did you see the number of goals we scored? Did you see how well we played?’ It’s a tough moment, but I respect everything. I am focused on each minute, living it with responsibility, self-criticism, and acceptance, but with immense desire. I truly want this to end well; I would be the happiest person in the world.”

When asked about player Oso with Suazo, Almeyda responded, “I have expressed my views on every player. As the coach, I manage the moments as I see fit. If I were to react to every opinion, then those giving opinions should be the coaches. Oso was never a starter; he is a young player I promoted to the first team during preseason. Until December, nobody asked about him, and it is true that he had two and a half very good matches. Subsequently, it was my decision to give Gaby another chance for several reasons, including experience and system adjustments. Sometimes planned changes do not go as expected during matches, but I keep him in mind, speak with him, and know he is ready to play. Ultimately, I make decisions that are not always right.”

On regaining fan support, he stated, “I believe in the free expression of the public, both positive and negative, as long as it comes from the heart. We are all pursuing the same objective: to save Sevilla. Since day one, I have maintained that unity, especially in football, brings more strength than division. This club has been quite divided for some time, as circumstances have shown. I am distancing myself from that; I aim to unite and accept dissatisfaction, especially after a 4-1 loss. Football is subjective, and protests are a natural human reaction.”

Discussing the numerous goals conceded from the second line, he remarked, “We have faced a significant number of goals against us. We are trying to modify systems, movements, and pressures; our search continues, sometimes successfully and sometimes not. Analyzing the goals conceded, many stem from marking errors. Recently, three goals came from the full-backs, not due to lack of players but rather concentration. I take this concentration to mean the calm we need, as theoretically, defenders should not concede goals. I am open to dialogue about football and adjustments we can all make from within and from an external perspective. I accept that it is true, but there are also unseen factors that have caused us problems.”

Regarding Carmona’s performance, he noted, “He was not precise in some actions recently. He gives everything on the field, often excessively so. We must recognize that calmness is fundamental. He can play in both positions, having started his career in a defensive role. He performed well in other matches. There have been errors, including mine, which we have discussed, corrected, and practiced. We are focused on maintaining our league status, reducing goals against us, and scoring more. If we become nervous, nothing good will come of it. It is crucial to acknowledge our mistakes. We believe we have the right tools, although as a coach, there may be tools I do not provide.”

On the transfer market, he stated, “We are aware of the financial situation and the need for two strikers. It is crucial to acknowledge our circumstances and seek the best options. We recognize that we need goals. Last year, we had Lukebakio and other players who contributed significantly. Winning requires scoring. We chose to strengthen a position where we lacked numbers since every team typically has four to five strikers. We changed our system due to player shortages, which justified bringing in a forward before addressing other positions. We must instill confidence in those who are here and maximize their potential for the club’s future.”

Concerning the lack of effectiveness, he acknowledged, “This has been a persistent issue throughout the tournament. We have generated many goal-scoring opportunities in various matches; this is where the difference lies. The absence of Rubén Vargas has been significant, as he is a player capable of changing the pace and making a difference. However, even without him, we have created scoring chances. Often, anxiety can hinder us. It is essential to recognize our mistakes so that we can gradually improve.”

Regarding Alexis, he stated, “His desire and effort are undeniable. Our results often overshadow many other important aspects for the group. He has achieved a lot and can support not only his own family but future generations as well. He is first to training and has been dealing with an injury that hampers his natural movement. I trust in this experience, and while we do not always get it right, I see it as completely positive in many respects.”

On the arrival of a new striker, he concluded, “Ideally, we would strengthen each line, but we all understand the club’s financial situation, so we had to make choices. The team had two strikers, and when Akor left, we worked hard to bring in a forward. We must be aware of the club’s real situation and find the best solutions. We felt that we needed goals. Previously, we had Lukébakio and numerous forwards. If we do not score, we cannot win, and we chose to reinforce a position where any team typically has four or five forwards. We need to provide confidence to those who are here and encourage them to give their best for the future of this institution.”

Regarding Maupay, he remarked, “He arrived to score goals and contribute from various positions. In the short time he has been with us, we are beginning to understand each other. The important moment was the great goal he scored, which unfortunately did not help us as we lost, but he showed good movements, and some will take time to develop further.”