Arias: "VCF are the Copa del Rey holders and have to show why this season"

Club ambassador Ricardo Arias represented Valencia CF at the Copa del Rey Round of 32 draw on Tuesday. Speaking at the Ciudad del Fútbol de Las Rozas, he expressed his satisfaction with the pairing with UD Logroñés, but warned that the new format of the competition means there can be no margin for error.

"I loved the draw, pitting us against UD Logroñés.  We're going back to Las Guanas; we've seen that it's a big ground in good condition, and I prefer it to those of other teams. It also makes us remember some old times," said Arias.

"We have to be respectful, because of the competition and who we are up against, but Valencia CF are the reigning cup holders and are obliged to go there and compete and show why. With respect to the opposition, Valencia CF have to go there to win."

Asked about the potential for an upset, Arias warned that "Valencia CF have suffered firsthand in ties against Segunda B sides, so we know what that is all about. If you don't take these games seriously, you're going to suffer. If you want to go far in the competition, you have to go through ties like this one and take it seriously from the start. I'm satisfied with the draw; I've seen other pairings and there will be other tougher ties."

Arias reiterated that "Valencia CF have to show why they are the holders. The team need to fight for their spot in another big final. We want to continue experiencing those types of moments, and the hunger, ambition and desire to win trophies is there after the final against Barça and the celebrations. We want to experience that again."