Iraola: “The compliments are a joy for all, but this is very long”

Andoni Iraola will experience a special match this Tuesday. He returns to San Mamés, but it will be the first time he has visited what was his home as a rival coach. He does it commanding a Rayo that is giving very good sensations and has three rounds without losing. The franjirrojo coach will make some nuance (not revolution) and could give the title to Radamel Falcao, the new idol of Vallecas. The illusion is there, but also the caution. He knows that Athletic de Marcelino is a tough nut to crack and his rear is a wall, but he is preparing his plan to assault La Catedral.

Return to San Mamés, always special: “It is undoubtedly a very special game for me. In that sense, it is positive that I have practically no time to prepare. There are times when the previous one is very long. Game against Getafe, two days and now ready again. In the end, the exigency of the duel makes you focus on the professional issue. “

Merquelanz injury: “There is no clear diagnosis. The knee is swollen, they continue to do tests and we will see how it evolves. The ligaments are good and the most serious injury has been ruled out, but for now we cannot count on him.”

Trejo, headdress: “There is not only the case of Oscar, there is also some more, as is normal. From a game you end up with blows, overloads … Things that do not go further and allow you to continue playing. We will see it today and depending on how it works. they find we will decide whether to take them and line them up. “

Rotations: “There may be some change, but I see the team well and not much wear on the players. For this game we need fresh legs because it will be very demanding. We will evaluate the situation a bit.”

Analysis of the rival: “It seems to me a team that is doing very well. They have had a great preseason and a great start to the league. They have very clear ideas and everyone works and runs. It's what they have to do, stand up to it and make it difficult for them.”

And how do you get involved ?: “We have to make them not feel comfortable, although that is not the same as saying it. Also, rain is expected, because Athletic likes that scenario. A game at home, at night and with rain … We have to look like the that we want to be and not make mistakes. We have very little margin for error in San Mamés. “

Iñaki Williams: “He is a special player, who works hard for the team. He is a threat and helps make his teammates dangerous. He brings everyone closer to the area and is uncomfortable to score. He is not the only threat. There are Berenguer, Villalibre, Nico Williams … Lots of people with spark “.

Goal beyond permanence ?: “We must continue to keep in mind the objective, which is permanence. There is an important fight this year because all the squads are good and difficult to win. We have been competitive and we have to continue being so.”

Praise to the game: “It is a joy for everyone, but it is matchday 5 and this is a very long time. We have won two games at home, which is very good, but we have nothing to spare and we have not done anything. We have to fight everything to see if it still hits us. “

Possible future on the bench at San Mamés: “That question is asked in every interview. Honestly, I am very focused on Rayo. I have an exciting challenge and I am delighted to be here.”

Keys to the match: “Maintain our personality in a scenario like this. They have not lost yet and at home they are very comfortable. That the game cannot, that it does not overtake us. Scare them and that it is two-way.”