Pepe Mel explained the absence of Juanjo Narváez in the travelling party, saying "it has come as a surprise. He pulled up in training with a groin strain which makes him unable to play. He is important to us and we don’t want to risk him". He also spoke of another missing player, Aridai, who has been suffering with problems since the last game against Málaga, saying "he started the week well but on Wednesday he felt discomfort and we didn’t want to push him".
"The players know our systems by heart, and that is important" he pointed out. Pepe Mel spoke of what Cristian López could bring to the side, as he is included in the squad for the first time, saying "He is an intense footballer, a fighter. He is brave and likes to shoot on sight which will help us in many facets".
Regarding his continuity as manager, he stated: "when a trainer is happy he doesn’t look elsewhere. I feel right at home at this club, I believe in the project we have here and that we can achieve great things".