Rayo Vallecano manager Inigo Perez has urged his players to embody Vallecas and their supporters in their upcoming Conference League final clash with Crystal Palace. The match is scheduled for Wednesday night at 21:00 CEST at the Leipzig Arena in Germany.
Following their arrival in Germany on Monday night, Rayo conducted their training session on Tuesday evening at the Leipzig Arena. Perez stressed the importance of minimizing distractions.
«There will be unfamiliar elements. We need to tune out the spotlight and embrace whatever comes our way. It’s crucial that we maintain our identity – and ensure that it’s sufficient to secure victory.»
«Only one step remains. I’m not fond of saying ‘We have to win.’ I can’t convey that to the players. My hope is that they replicate what has brought them this far and don’t alter their routines – this will foster calmness and security.»
«We have to represent Vallecas and our fans»
Perez highlighted his team’s commitment to representing Vallecas, the district that has become synonymous with Rayo. He suggested this representation would be paramount, leading them towards victory or something very close to it.
«Beyond the comparisons tied to the sport – which have no bearing on the game itself – our duty is to represent Vallecas and our fans. If we achieve this and keep our passion burning, we’ll be on the right path. While we cannot dictate the outcome, we can control every other aspect. We must disregard comparisons that are purely a matter of marketing.»
The journey to Leipzig marks the largest contingent of traveling supporters Rayo has ever had for a game. Back in Vallecas, fans have been queuing around the stadium for a chance to watch the final on a large screen.
«I’ve been saying this all year. You feel an emotional obligation and a profound sense of responsibility – not for the result alone, but to ensure that whatever actions we take make them feel proud. The final will be no different. I hope we can offer them a style of play that honors all that we have accomplished thus far.»
Similarities between Rayo and Palace
The Rayo Vallecano manager noted observed similarities between his squad and their opponents, despite differing manifestations.
«We share characteristics and have a similar approach to understanding sacrifice. Our tactical structures differ, but our priority is the collective. When these forces are pitted against each other, the impact is bound to be significant. At the outset of the competition, if we had the opportunity to choose an opponent, they would have been our preference.»
Regarding his personal experience in the lead-up to the match, Perez appeared to be finding it more challenging than his players.
«I feel a pressure to ensure they receive information clearly. Until yesterday, I was consumed by it. Now, it’s up to them. In the role of a player, you are the one on the field, experiencing those stimuli directly. Both roles carry their own responsibilities. But it is about the players now.»
Oscar Trejo: «Tomorrow a group of friends will play»
While Alvaro Garcia expressed his astonishment at the thought of his younger self becoming a professional footballer, let alone reaching a European final, Oscar Trejo reiterated the unity within the dressing room.
«Tomorrow, a group of friends will have the immense fortune to play. It will be magical. The journey has been arduous; when we began, we questioned how long it would endure. Let’s go out there tomorrow, give our absolute best, and savor the moment.»
This match will be Trejo’s final appearance for Rayo after a decade of service across two spells with the club.
«To be grateful for this moment and for my teammates. Emotions and fears will surface, but this is meant to be enjoyed – not just by us, but also by the people who have come out to support us. Hopefully, we can bring them joy.»
Both Rayo and Palace are vying for their inaugural international trophy. For Rayo, this would also represent their first major honor if they emerge victorious. The sentiment in Vallecas is that this could be a once-in-a-lifetime occasion, but they appear determined to enjoy it rather than let the pressure weigh them down. Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner also projected a relaxed demeanor ahead of the final, stating his satisfaction with their preparation.
