Elche head coach Eder Sarabia has urged his team to focus on their own performance ahead of a crucial LaLiga clash with Real Betis, insisting he is fully confident they will avoid relegation.
Speaking in a press conference, Sarabia stressed the importance of mental strength as the season enters its decisive final stretch. With just three games remaining, the Elche boss acknowledged the relegation battle has tightened but emphasized the need for his side to concentrate on themselves.
“We depend on ourselves, and we have to think about what we do,” Sarabia said. “Our recent run has been very strong, and against Alavés we deserved to win because we dominated long periods.”
The Basque coach highlighted the emotional challenge of the final weeks: “This is a time to manage emotions and transmit confidence. We are going to Seville with everything to put in a great performance.”
On the opposition, Sarabia praised Real Betis and their manager. “They are a top team with the best coach in Betis’ history,” he said. Reflecting on their Copa del Rey meeting earlier this season, he added: “We controlled large parts of that game but lacked penetration. This time we need to threaten their goal more and know how to resist when they push.”
Despite the difficulty of the fixture, Sarabia remains optimistic: “We know how to win away from home, and we want to do it again. This league shows anything can happen.”
Sarabia confirmed that Yago and Adam are unavailable, while Rafa Mir will be assessed up until kick-off. He also hinted at changes to the starting lineup: “There will be changes because physical freshness matters, but I see the team in good shape mentally.”
One talking point was a letter sent by Sevilla FC to the integrity body requesting scrutiny of the match. Sarabia responded with irony: “It surprises me that Sevilla wants Betis to win. We’ll go all out, and so will they—I don’t think there’s much to it.”
The coach stressed the need to avoid external noise: “It’s not about nine points—it’s about three. We must focus on what we can control and not worry about what rivals do.”
Asked about his confidence in survival, Sarabia was emphatic: “Absolutely convinced.” He recalled saying the same after a defeat to Rayo Vallecano and explained his optimism: “Many opposing coaches have admitted we have outperformed them in many aspects. That’s what makes me believe so strongly.”
He also highlighted the club’s institutional growth under owner Christian Bragarnik: “There is economic stability, rising attendance, and projects like the new training complex. These are very positive signs.”
Finally, Sarabia touched on refereeing and effective playing time with a light-hearted remark: “It’s not just about applying the rules—it’s also about understanding the context and helping the spectacle.”