Adrián Embarba, one of UD Almería’s captains, spoke on UDA Radio about the club’s current situation and shared views similar to those expressed by Miguel de la Fuente in his press conference the previous day. Both players admitted the team must be self-critical, while also remaining optimistic about what lies ahead. In fact, UD Almería are still fighting for promotion.

'We have regained our enthusiasm after a few difficult weeks,' said Embarba, before adding, 'Our objective was to achieve automatic promotion to La Liga. We fought for it throughout the entire season, but in the last few rounds it slipped away from us.'

Even so, he stressed: 'We understand there may be some disappointment around the Club, but we're still in the race for promotion, we depend on ourselves, and on Sunday we must take the first step by beating Valladolid to reach the promotion play-offs.'

The UD Almería player also had a message for the supporters: 'I'd ask the fans to stay with us and keep believing. We know we owe our supporters and we want to reward them. They have supported us through good times and bad, at home and away, and even in everyday life on the streets. We hope they continue like this because we need them.'

Adrián Embarba made it clear: 'Finishing third in the table is very important heading into the play-offs, and that is what we are going to fight for on Sunday. Real Valladolid already have everything settled, but they will not give us anything because they will want to finish the season with a win. On the pitch, we have to show who is really fighting for something in this match. Besides, we're playing at home, with our people.'

The UD Almería co-captain is convinced the team will reach the promotion play-offs and eventually achieve their objective, although he insists it will only happen 'through hard work and humility. I think we'll be considered favourites and our opponents probably see us that way too, but we have to prove it on the pitch.'

He also added: 'The squad is ambitious and we are eager to begin the fight for promotion and win it. It will be very demanding, but also very exciting. We want to pass that feeling on to the fans.'

Embarba also pointed out: 'The play-offs also lead you to LaLiga. In August, nobody will remember how promotion was achieved, only that we will be competing in the top division of Spanish football.'