ANTONIO CORDÓN: "MY PRIORITY IS BUILDING A UNITED SQUAD"

Antonio Cordón arrived in Sevilla this Friday to lay the foundations for our 2025/26 campaign. However, the recently appointed Director of Football is clear that success depends on unity – both on and off the pitch:

"I've only been here a few hours, but I've already greeted all the staff. It's been a while since I last visited the training facilities, and I'm very impressed. I've seen people full of enthusiasm, smiling, and eager to work. I believe we'll build a great team here – uniting the entire Sevilla family. My first impression is extremely positive. I come with a sense of growth, convinced we'll move this club forward because there's still so much room for improvement."

On how the deal came about, he admits: "When the president contacted me, I didn't hesitate. There were several reasons. Firstly, because there were two moments in my life when Sevilla and I held talks years ago, but nothing ever materialised. That left me with a lingering desire to work here someday. Now, at this stage of my career, I'm hungry for a new challenge, to keep growing personally and professionally – and to help others grow too. This is a personal challenge as well. The club is going through a delicate moment, and I'm keen to help it through that. I know many of the staff here and the passion they have for teamwork. There's a strong desire to turn things around, and I believe I can contribute my part so that, together, we gradually return to winning ways – to what Sevilla FC truly represents."

 

"Sevilla and I spoke years ago, but our paths didn't align – so this has always been unfinished business for me."

One of his first tasks will be selecting a new manager, though he downplays his own role:
"I don't want to overstate the role of the sporting director. What matters are all the people working here. The manager is crucial, and the club have been analysing options for weeks. I'll contribute my insights to help choose the right coaching staff – people that can lead the first team to the results we expect."

He acknowledges the financial limitations but refuses to use them as an excuse: "We'll adapt. The economic conditions are what they are, but we can't complain. An expensive squad doesn't guarantee success if there's no unity. A cheaper one might perform better. We'll work within our means, using our expertise to build the most competitive team possible – one that meets this club's demands. The youth academy is also key. We're seeing young players seize their chances in professional football, and as a club that develops talent, we can't fall behind. Our goal is to see them rise to the first team."

"I don't want to overstate the sporting director's role. The real importance lies with every single employee."

Constructing the squad will be a collective effort: "We'll work closely with the manager – this isn't a one-person decision. Every position is important. Obviously, the spine of the team is critical – it carries the weight of the game. Balance in midfield, attacking and defensive solidity – these make a huge difference. However, you also need wingers who can play inside or out... There are many factors. Each player's role depends on who's beside them, so we'll analyse every detail."

On financial fair play constraints, Cordón is pragmatic: "Honestly, my biggest concern is building a team and a group. That's my top priority. Yes, there are financial parameters, but we can't waste energy complaining. What we need is an united and committed squad – and that's not about money. It's about people and values. Everyone wants to win, to avoid struggles, to compete at the top. With everyone's effort, I'm convinced we'll get there. We'll make our fans proud. The difficulties I've seen from the outside – and experienced at other clubs – must be temporary. Step by step, we'll stabilise and then push forward."

"I've never seen a successful team that wasn't united. But I've seen many fail because they lost that cohesion."

Finally, he addressed the supporters: "This fanbase is incredible – passionate, demanding, and always carrying the team. They want wins, but they also value commitment and intensity. You can't ask anything more from them. When they see the right attitude, they give everything. The problem is if players give up – because these fans know football. Together, we'll reignite that excitement. They deserve joy, and I want them to be proud of their club in every way. Seville is unique – football is everywhere here. I love that. Football is an escape, a bond, and it's thrilling. Our job is to keep everyone's passion burning bright."