La Rosaleda will host a direct clash this Wednesday between two teams desperate to escape the relegation zone. Villarreal coach Íñigo Pérez analyzed the match against Málaga CF in a press conference. "The team that controls serenity will be closer to winning," stated the manager, who faces the game under pressure after failing to win in La Liga or the Champions League so far this season.
Málaga arrive at the match following a 1-1 draw against Celta Vigo on September 13th, with Adrián Niño scoring in the 83rd minute. This result is part of a five-game winless run, with three draws and two defeats, keeping the blanquiazul team in a difficult league position. The squad urgently needs points, as seen on the upcoming fixtures schedule, which includes a match against Athletic Club in November.
The psychological factor
Íñigo Pérez acknowledged the added complexity of facing an opponent also fighting to avoid the drop. The coach spoke of the need for a strong response, using a graphic metaphor about the necessity to "take out the hammer and make beach sand." He also reflected on the difference in pressure between playing at home and away. "Perhaps away from home there is a liberation and we feel looser," he explained, referring to away games like the one awaiting them in Málaga.
The yellow-submarine manager confirmed he is considering rotations in his lineup due to fixture congestion and the need to manage the squad's efforts. Players like Juanfran Funes, mentioned in attack, could feature. Pérez was self-critical, admitting the season's start has been worse than expected despite a promising preseason, and assured he feels "full of spirit, with the same enthusiasm as the first day."
Institutional support and the future
During a delicate moment, the coach thanked the club for its backing, which has supported him especially in difficult times. However, Pérez is aware of football's realities and admitted coaches can be dismissed if results do not improve. His immediate priority is to correct Villarreal's trajectory, starting with the clash at La Rosaleda.
For Málaga, this match represents a golden opportunity to end the poor run and secure a win that moves them away from the bottom. The squad, which can be viewed on the team page, needs to show its ability to react against a direct rival. Íñigo Pérez's team will, for their part, seek their first league win of the campaign at a ground that has historically been tough for them. The game is played this Wednesday at La Rosaleda.
Background and full detail: Sport.es
