The captain of Unión Deportiva Las Palmas, Kirian Rodríguez, has stated that the team must overcome the mental block that has contributed to their current crisis in LaLiga Hypermotion. Speaking at a press conference, he advised against looking for scapegoats to expedite their recovery from this challenging situation.
Rodríguez, a midfielder from Tenerife, emphasised that issues should be resolved "internally, without turning against each other," and suggested that players should focus on identifying their weaknesses to improve. Following the team's recent home defeat to Castellón (0-3) and the fans' disapproval, which saw some supporters remain until the end, he described the current feelings within the squad as "harsh," noting that he has never experienced such sentiments at the club before.
He clarified that he was not upset by his substitution at half-time and understands the protests from the stands. Regarding the current head coach, Juan Manuel Rodríguez, he mentioned that he has known him for twelve years and that he demands a competitive spirit from the players. However, he stressed that the priority in the current situation is for the players to overcome their "mental block."
Rodríguez expressed doubts about the label of 'defensive coach' often associated with Rodríguez, stating that he also enjoys attacking play and building partnerships on the field. Concerning the new coach's "transitional" status, he indicated that it would be the club's decision whether he remains until the end of the season.
He also addressed concerns regarding a potential relegation to Primera Federación, recalling that last season, Málaga managed to reach La Liga after starting the campaign in the relegation zone. Looking ahead to their next opponent, Real Sociedad B, Rodríguez highlighted the need to neutralise their strength on the right flank, where they build most of their attacks.
In a surprising admission, he revealed that he was unaware the team would debut in this year's Copa del Rey on Tuesday, 27 October, against RSD Alcalá, a club from Segunda Federación, in Madrid.
