In the lead-up to the Valencia city derby, Portuguese coach Luís Castro of Levante acknowledged the significance of this special match for the fans, although for his team it represents just another three points at stake. The match, taking place at Ciutat de València, takes on dramatic contours, with Levante in second-to-last place and Valencia just five points ahead, trying to avoid the relegation zone. "We know that for the fans it is a special game. As we work to make them happy, we know that if we win, we give them even more," the Portuguese coach stated at the pre-match press conference, ensuring the maximum effort from his team. "For us, it’s just another game; we plan for it the same way, but it’s special for the fans, and if we can give them something more, we will do it," he assured. With over 20 years of experience, the Portuguese coach emphasized his experience in derbies and his awareness of what they mean to the fans. "I know how important it is for the fans. I have been in the city for a while; I understand what Levante fans feel. It’s a game that is lived before and after; it doesn’t just stay on the day of the match," he added, explaining that the rivalry is felt daily, as "all Levante fans work with people who are from Valencia." When asked about the opponent, coached by Carlos Corberán, Castro explained that he only analyzed the most recent matches and that the first-round clash at Mestalla is no longer a reference. "Both teams are different at this moment," he analyzed, describing Valencia as a team with "very strong individualities," but also with weaknesses that Levante will try to exploit. Regarding the result, he joked, "If I knew the result, I would play the Euromillions and win, but I don’t have that ability. I wish I could, but I’m not that good," he quipped. Despite the heavy schedule next week, with matches against Villarreal and Barcelona, Luís Castro assured that the focus is entirely on the derby, without thinking about resting players. The coach took the opportunity to complain about having less rest time compared to Villarreal. "No coach likes to have less time than others. We will work because I knew we had to be more resilient now," he concluded.
In the Castro of Levante remains central to this story.
In the Castro of Levante remains central to this story.
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