The Club

“WITH ALL RESPECT, BOTH TEAMS HAVE THE SAME CHANCES IN THE SECOND-LEG"

22/02/2018

"We can dream, we go there with all the excitement in the world”

Sergio Rico was the star of this week's A Balón Parado, analysing the side's chances of qualifying for the Champions League quarter-finals and knocking out Manchester United: "We can dream, we go there with all the excitement in the world. Playing a good match and working like we did coming in, I believe Sevilla has just as much chance as Manchester United in going through".

He was also asked about his performance against Girona: "It wasn't just the penalty save, I played a good all-round game in all aspects - with my feet, in the air. It's a match that has given me a step forward, giving back some confidence for those who have always trusted me: the coaches, my teammates, the Club... everyone".

“If I put in the hours when I'm playing well I put in even more when I'm playing badly”

On those who supported him most: "It's just a feeling of total gratitude. Palop beyond being my hero is a great friend, as well as supporting you he gives you a professional perspective which helps a lot".

The Montequinto native wanted to emphasise support during the hard times: "To see the affection my teammates have shown is the most beautiful thing. If it happens to another player I will do the same. It's something beautiful to help one another in a united dressing room. We're good people and that's the important thing".

"I have always been clear that I'm strong because getting to the first team hasn't been a bed of roses. I've got here going from team to team from the youngest age. I've had to suffer and fight a lot but I've always overcome adversity".

For Sergio Rico, the important thing is work: "If I put the hours in when I'm playing well I put even more in when I'm playing badly. Sevilla FC hasn't just shaped me as a footballer but as a person as well and has shaped my values".

He confirmed there was also interest to take him away from Nervión last summer: "AC Milan came but my renovation came out of that and I left it to one side".

On another matter entirely, the homegrown keeper showed his human side recalling his dedication after the Girona game to little Antonio, who is fighting a tough battle. He also received a surprise message from his father on the program which he seemed very grateful for. He emphasised the power of football: "You're aware of the excitement that a kid gets meeting you but you can never help them defeat something like that. The morale boost it can give is something incredible".