Luis Rioja: “We’re going to give it our all on the pitch so that the fans can feel proud of the team”

Luis Rioja was the featured guest on VCF Media Radio’s news segment with this exclusive interview discussing the team’s preseason.

Preseason workload

“It’s been a positive balance. We’re doing things well in every training session. We’re pushing both team and individual preparation to the limit. This is the time to get minutes in our legs and absorb the concepts the coach wants from us. We’re doing just that, beyond the results, which aren’t the main thing at this stage.”

Objective ahead of the LALIGA EA SPORTS 25–26 season

“We’re clear about our objective: to reach the start of the season in the best possible physical and mental condition, with the coach’s ideas fully understood and internalized.”

Tactical concepts and physical preparation

“We’re gradually working on the tactical nuances Corberán wants. We’re trying to perfect what he asks of us while also focusing on getting into top physical shape for the start of LALIGA.”

Carlos Corberán, a demanding coach

“He asks for full commitment — and then some. He wants to push both the group and each individual to the limit. We’re on board with that. He has a very clear footballing philosophy: effort, possession, high pressing… and he’s now introducing the final details to find the best system and preparation for us.”

Team progress in preseason matches

“The team has been evolving. Our first matches were against sides who were further along in their preparation, and you could see that freshness in their legs. Against Olympique de Marseille, we saw a more aggressive and compact version of ourselves. We’re going to keep improving — it’s a process. Tactically, we’ve taken steps forward. We’re aiming to show a very positive version of ourselves at the Trofeu Taronja. I’m confident we’ll be ready to take all three points in the opening match of the LALIGA season.”

Team atmosphere

“It’s a welcoming, healthy group. It’s very easy to settle in. The new signings have arrived hungry and eager to give everything for this badge. I’m sure they’ll contribute a lot both on and off the pitch.”

Connection with Dani Raba

“It’s very easy to connect with him. You can see his quality just by the way he touches the ball. He understands the game well. He’s a player who operates between the lines, and he’s going to help us a lot with his vision and link-up play. I think we’ll build a good connection.”

Motivation for the 25–26 season

“I feel the same excitement as last season. I’m a competitive player who gives everything on the pitch — and that won’t change. That’s who I am. I’m hungry and full of desire. I want to keep enjoying football, enjoying Valencia CF, and enjoying Mestalla. I can’t wait to give the fans that first victory in matchday one. We hope it’ll be a great season and that we’ll celebrate many special moments together. We’re going to give it our all on the pitch so the fans can feel proud and satisfied with the team.”