Luis Rioja: “We have to go to Vallecas to win and take another step towards our goal”

Valencia CF forward Luis Rioja addressed the media on Tuesday, April 15, from the press room of the Ciutat Esportiva de Paterna, reflecting on the team’s good form and previewing the upcoming match against Rayo Vallecano.

Mestalla experience

"I'm enjoying what I used to suffer as a visitor. It’s a stadium that, when you come as the rival, you suffer because of the drive and motivation of the fans and the great Club that backs them. Now, I’m lucky to enjoy it—and the results are following.”

Second half of the season

"The season itself set the objective for us. We started very poorly, and that set the goal of survival. We're now within touching distance, and we’ve taken a big step forward, but we can’t lose sight of that goal. We spent many matchdays in the relegation zone, and now we’ve put some distance between us and those spots. We have to go to Vallecas to win and take one more step. Once we secure safety, then we can start dreaming."

League position

"There are four or five teams between us and eighth place, and it’s not just about one team slipping up. It's normal for people to get excited with recent results, but we have to stay focused and secure our survival. We’re one step away from our goal. What matters most now is taking all three points against Rayo."

Experience and leadership

"I’ve tried to make sure we all row in the same direction—that's key. When you start feeling sorry for yourself, you’re done. I’ve unfortunately always fought relegation battles, and the veterans have tried to keep the team steady. From day one, I believed we’d stay up. I saw the potential in training, and I knew we were better than many teams around us. With confidence, we’ve taken big steps forward. What we’ve managed to lift in such a short time has been massive."

End of the season

"I never ease up—not even in friendlies. I like to compete at 100%, and that’s the mindset the whole team needs: to go as far as we can and fight for the badge, the club, and the city until matchday 38, no matter the goals."

Playing position

"I’ve played almost my entire career as a left winger, but I’m feeling quite comfortable on the right as well. My only goal is to help and give my best wherever I’m needed."

Ambitions for next season

"I dream about it. That’s the ultimate for a club and a player—to grow and compete in as many competitions as possible. This year has been different. When I arrived in the summer, I knew where I was coming—to one of the greatest clubs in Spanish history, a champion of nearly everything. The competition led us to a goal that Valencia CF is not used to fighting for. Hopefully next year we can compete in Europe—or at least fight for it. We can’t afford a poor start next season.”

Physical condition

"I’m feeling really good. I work every day to be fresh and healthy for the weekend. I hold myself to a high standard daily, and I feel strong and full of energy. I’m grateful to be playing consistently.”

Turnaround in the second half

"We were in a tough spot, heads were down because results weren’t coming. Then Corberán arrived with new energy, and the players who weren’t getting minutes started to reconnect. We all tried to get back on track to achieve the goal. Carlos is a demanding coach who’s very hands-on with players, and he’s managed to turn our results around."