Joaquín Caparrós, our first-team Head Coach, addressed the media on Friday ahead of our final home fixture of the season, as they prepare to welcome Real Madrid to the Ramón Sánchez-Pizjuán on LaLiga EA Sports Matchday 37.
Reflecting on Tuesday’s vital victory over Las Palmas, Caparrós spoke of a clear shift in the team’s mood: “We’ve seen things differently this week. We’d been tense, waiting for that win to secure safety. Now, the players have trained with more joy and the atmosphere has changed.”
He also took a moment to express his gratitude to the supporters: “I’ve had people call me from abroad about the atmosphere the other night. I can only thank them. The fans gave us life, they’re the soul of this club.”
Looking ahead to Sunday's match against Real Madrid, Caparrós said: “We want to put in a great performance. Real Madrid have a manager who’s a global inspiration for both young and experienced coaches - a true club man.”
“Madrid have that winning DNA - they know they have to give 100% every time. We want to make our fans proud, play well, and walk off the pitch with smiles all around,” he added.
Caparrós also took time to highlight the growing role of academy players in the first team: “The academy is playing a crucial role this season. We’ve got young players like Juanlu, Carmona, Kike Salas, Isaac, and now Ramón who have all featured heavily. Sevilla produces world champions. I see youngsters in the academy with incredible talent, and it won’t be long before they’re in the first team. When there’s talent, you have to give it a chance.”
"Our academy is playing a crucial role, several players are getting lots of game time"
He also spoke about the emergence of Álvaro García Pascual and his decisive goal against Las Palmas: “Álvaro wasn’t originally part of the squad. We brought him in after Akor Adams got injured. He plays for Sevilla Atlético and I’d seen him in a few matches, including one against Celta. I wanted to get a closer look when I arrived. We were short on numbers, and he’s helped us massively, and on top of that, he scored the goal.”
Finally, Caparrós reflected on his latest spell in charge of the club: “I’d like to be remembered as a Sevillista who always gave everything for this badge. Every time I’ve stepped foot at the Ramón Sánchez-Pizjuán, it’s been special. I’ve been lucky enough to manage the club I love.”