Quique Sánchez Flores (61) spoke to the media on the eve of the LaLiga EA Sports matchday 36 clash between Deportivo Alavés and FC Barcelona.
The experienced coach addressed the current state of their rivals, who approach the fixture in a relaxed mood after being crowned champions and celebrating the title in style. He also discussed his team’s chances of securing survival in Spain’s top flight. Here is what Sánchez Flores had to say in the press conference:
**Toni Martínez**: “He took a knock that bothered him, but he will be available for the match.”
**Personal morale**: “I’m fine, with the same enthusiasm as always.”
**The match**: “We need to bring out our best version, make few mistakes, and read the game well. We have to play in the best possible way against the best team in LaLiga. Every match will be the most important one; I’m not thinking beyond tomorrow’s game. I don’t know where the points will come from. The last result creates momentum for the next one.”
**Barcelona in celebration mode**: “We don’t think they will lower their level, so we’ll have to put together one of those memorable nights. Whoever plays for them, they are good. They will do as they always do—press as always and leave little time to think. They will dominate the match, and we will look to hurt them. It’s important, but not decisive.”
**”We are weaker in attack”**
**Exploiting advantages**: “We need to be consistent enough to at least draw those matches. We felt that against Athletic Club and Elche. We need to turn things around and get the lineups and approach right.”
**Survival situation**: “We have suffered three defeats in nine matches, and that condemns us. No one should doubt anyone because we are what we are. In teams like Alavés, the fight is constant. The only way to do it is by staying together, united, and strong. We have to focus on ourselves. We still need a team to depend entirely on ourselves. Two points over nine is very little. In this league, one win gives you a big leap.”
**Squad status**: “There are players who are on yellow cards and we have to take that into account, others who haven’t played for a while, some playing out of position… We are also weaker in attack because we miss Lucas Boyé, who could reach Oviedo. I know it might sound like an excuse. We need to find the opportunity elsewhere.”
**Mentions**: Football, LaLiga EA Sports, FC Barcelona, Alavés, Quique Sánchez Flores