Sarabia reflected on the recent results, saying, “We congratulate Barcelona and now hope they chase 100 points. Everything has tightened up. We can’t control the results we wanted, so we must focus on ourselves and how we prepare for tomorrow. Many of us are in the thick of it, but we need to stay centered on our own game. The team is in good shape; we’ve been on a strong run of points. The other day, we should have won comfortably, though that play with Alavés could have cost us the match. It’s a moment to handle our emotions. We’re projecting confidence and security to show that the team is ready and well-prepared. We keep an eye on others, but our focus remains on ourselves.”
Regarding injuries, he noted, “Yago and Adam won’t be able to play, and we’ll wait until the last minute for Rafa Mir.”
On the possibility of beating Betis, he stated, “They’re a great team, practically secured for fifth place in the Champions League. We have the ability to do it, and we’ve already showed that in the Copa, though we were eliminated under strange circumstances. We’re heading to a big stadium, facing a great side… But we know what it takes to win away, and we want to do it again. This league proves anything can happen.”
Asked about potential rotations, he said, “We’ll make some changes because physical freshness is important. I see the team in good shape overall, hungry to compete, since Alavés didn’t dominate anything. Physically, we look strong, even though some rivals are struggling more. There will be a few tweaks, but we’ll field a strong lineup.”
When questioned about Sevilla’s comments on their match, he replied, “I’m a bit surprised that Sevilla wants Betis to win. With those two victories, they’ll be more relaxed, but we’re not focusing on that. We’re going all out, and they are too—they have something to play for as well.”
On whether he expects a Betis similar to the one in the Copa, he explained, “They’re an excellent team with a fantastic manager, the best in Betis history. Pellegrini is putting Betis where they belong. They might have some injuries or defensive issues. In midfield and attack, they have top-quality players. We need to expect their best version. We must keep possession and challenge them. We should show personality and think only about tomorrow—playing and bringing out our best. It’s a beautiful match in a wonderful setting. Since we’re eager to enjoy these atmospheres, we’ll give everything in the remaining games.”
What will he change against Betis compared to the Copa? “We lacked depth, even though we had a lot of control. When we went up 0-1, we didn’t maintain that bravery. We need to keep that intention throughout the whole game. And when Betis pushes harder, we must hold on.”
Asked if reaching 43 points for safety motivates him, he said, “We have to accept what’s there, not what happened in other seasons. Right now, it seems it will be very tough, but not just for Elche. Other teams, in their offices and dressing rooms, are also concerned. We take it naturally, with responsibility and enthusiasm. We’re thinking about Betis and going for it. We have to appreciate and enjoy this because we’re privileged. We had a very good first half with high expectations, and now we’re fighting for what we deserve.”
On the balance between tactics and mentality in these final weeks, he concluded, “Giving two talks now won’t change anything. There are parallels to last season. Many signs make us see things positively. What we’ve done afterward has great merit.”
