ÓLIVER TORRES: "WE MUST BE PROUD OF THE JOURNEY WE HAVE GONE ON”

With only a few days to go until the final of the UEFA Europa League against AS Roma, the Sevilla players are not underestimating the importance of this time for the team. On the media day organised by UEFA and the club this week in the stadium, Fernando praised the way the team has responded this season, showing the strength of Sevilla FC: "This has shown what this club, Sevilla, is all about. A team that was in a difficult moment and looked to be down and out, and suddenly comes back fighting for big things. We have got to try to do our best. There are two matches left, and one of these is a crucial final for us. It's down to us to approach these matches in the best way possible, trying to win these matches."  

The Brazilian central midfielder highlighted the need to start well against the Italian side: "Mentally you have to be switched on and concentrate. We first need to start the game and show our excitement, and show them how we want to win the trophy and will do whatever we need to. We are already showing on the pitch that we want to win it, but in this match you have to show it much more. That is how we are going to start the match, as favourites and coming in strong to win the trophy."

His teammate Lucas Ocampos emphasised the squad's commitment to the European competition in a tricky season: "At the end of the day we always knew what we were capable of. Many people wanted us to not worry about Europe, and that we focus on the league so we don't get relegated. The team kept on fighting, did well and has defeated several good teams. Now we have the opportunity to bring a trophy back home, and make the trophy cabinet even bigger."

The Argentine also praised the link between the squad and the fans, a crucial aspect ahead of the European final: "It's something very special, the relationship we have with out fans. When they are with us, we feel as if we have an extra player. We need them as they need us. I hope they can find the right flights. It's not easy for anyone." 

Rekik: "We started very badly and we now have the chance to end this season incredibly by winning this cup" 

Rekik was the third to speak, and focused on our opposition: "they are a strong team and have a great coach. It's going to be difficult, but we will give our all." At the same time, he's happy that the the players can celebrate this moment together after a tough campaign: "We started very badly and we now have the chance to end this season incredibly by winning this cup". He also wished to show his gratitude to all Sevillista's: "It's spectacular, every match we have at home. We hope that many people come to Budapest, we are going to give our all to bring this trophy to Sevilla."

"Being able to make it to Budapest and claim another title is something special"

Óliver Torres is another player who knows what it means to win the UEL with Sevilla FC: "This year is special because it has been difficult, and we can't forget that we went through some really bad moments. Seeing the smiles on the faces of the children now makes it all worth it though. Being able to make it to Budapest and claim another title is something special. It's going to be a unique final and I hope we are all able to smile together", Óliver said in an emotional message to the fans.

The Sevilla midfielder stressed how much the team's form has changed at the end of the season: "There were difficult moments. It's a day when we will all be in a circle together, look at each other and know what we need to do. The reality is that we will not all be here next year, that's football, there are changes. We must be proud of the journey we have gone on and getting to Wednesday. Claiming this trophy after the year we have had, would be something marvellous and unrivalled, and would be among the best days of my life. I have to be thankful that I have these moments in my life."

Finally, Suso spoke along similar lines with regard to the improvement of the team: "Four months ago nobody would have expected this, it was a delicate and difficult moment. Everything has changed, we are well, the team is competitive and the trainer has worked very well. We deserve this for the year we have gone through." To finish, he sent a message to calm the nerves: "It's about trusting in how we got here, have faith in what we are doing, looking at the matches we have won and how good some of these teams were. It's a time to enjoy ourselves."