Oscar Sanchez clarifies the status of Luis Rioja and Guido Rodriguez

Valencia CF

What does it mean to make your debut with a win in charge of Valencia?

"A lot of happiness. It is the dream debut, but more than happy for myself, I am happy for the Valencia people, who are suffering, for the players, who do not want to be in this situation. The personal side is, right now, in the background, and I am very happy for the fans and, above all, for the players".

What did you like most about the team?

"I liked a lot of things. Mainly, that in the moments when Alaves press you and bring you into their direct style, we have known how to suffer and defend very well. We also had the personality to keep the ball and attack. We created plenty of chances and I am very happy with the effort. You could see a recognizable team, which is what I wanted to see and what the Valencia fans want to see: a team that goes for it, fights for every ball, and plays at high tempos".

How did you see Mayol's debut?

"You've already seen it. I have a lot of faith in Mayol; I believe in him. He has earned it and he is ready, as he showed today. The difficult part is not debuting, but giving continuity to the process. He has to keep his feet on the ground and keep going with the drive and the enthusiasm he has".

How are Guido and Luis Rioja?

18

Guido Rodríguez
3.420.000€+150.000€5

J6

-

J5

-

J4

-

J3

8

J2

MD

00

16

Luis Rioja
1.450.000€+30.000€12

J6

-

J5

-

J4

0

J3

-

J2

MD

01

"Guido and Rioja's commitment is beyond any doubt. I spoke with them and both wanted to be there. We also thought that there is still a lot of La Liga left and about Valencia's future. Guido has simply had a knock, a stamp. He was coming off an injury and it was not advisable for him to play more than 60 or 70 minutes. Rioja made a great effort. It's a shame about that injury, but we have a match on Sunday and then an international break comes that will surely allow him to return in good condition"