Pepe Mel recognised that missing strikers Araujo and Rubén Castro have meant that his team “are weaker up front, but physically and tactically we are doing the right things”. He also said that “Rubén doesn’t stand much chance of making the game in the Benito Villamarín against Betis”.
“Each game is bringing with it more injuries because we are competing hard”, he said after Cedrés was forced off the pitch through injury, adding “I am not sure yet what is up with him”.
The manager once again highlighted the performance of Pedri, saying that playing with professional players “is doing him lots of good. There are lots of people watching him and we need to look after him properly. He is going to be an important player in Spanish football”.
As for the possible departure of players in this transfer window he said it is necessary for the club “due to our current situation. I hope to have Mauricio Lemos in the team because he helps us out a lot. He is a player who has a great future because of his young age”.