'We aren't favourites; if we don't roll up our sleeves and dig deep, we won't have a chance,' said UD Almería head coach Joan Francesc Ferrer Sicilia 'Rubi' when asked whether his side should be considered the clear favourites to win promotion to the top flight through the play-off final.

Rubi dismissed the tag, saying: 'This idea that we're favourites has become a classic narrative that you journalists don't have to buy into.' He went on to explain: 'We have a great squad, but we're just another team in this division. Like everyone else, we have strengths, but we also have weaknesses in certain areas where other teams excel.'

The Catalan was speaking at his pre-match press conference ahead of Sunday's first leg of the promotion play-off final against Málaga CF at La Rosaleda Stadium.

With almost 30,000 fans attending Málaga's semi-final clash against UD Las Palmas on Wednesday, Rubi was asked whether the atmosphere could influence the game. 'Of course their supporters will get behind the team and create pressure, but we're used to that,' he said. 'We have players who have competed in the top flight and this season the atmosphere across LaLiga Hypermotion stadiums has been stronger than ever. My main concern is making sure we produce a good performance.'

The Vilassar de Mar native also took the opportunity to call for sportsmanship both on and off the pitch between two clubs that have traditionally enjoyed a positive relationship. 'There have always been good relations between the two clubs, and they shouldn't be damaged by isolated incidents that may have happened,' he stressed.

Discussing Málaga CF, the first leg and the tie as a whole, Rubi highlighted the balance between the sides. 'They finished the league season with 73 points and we ended with 74. They're a very good team, among the best in the division for intensity, with outstanding pace and the freshness that comes from having such a young squad.'

Rubi believes controlling Málaga CF's transitions will be crucial. 'If we don't manage their transitions, we'll suffer. They're already dangerous in possession, and if we allow them space to run into, it becomes even tougher. We know each other very well and there are very few secrets between the two teams.'

Rubi also praised the UD Almería supporters for their backing throughout the campaign. 'The fans are giving everything for us. The atmosphere around the Club has been fantastic, and nothing would make us happier than bringing back a positive result from Málaga to reward them.'

The gaffer confirmed that André Horta will miss the match due to a muscle injury. Everyone else is available, although a few players are carrying minor knocks. 'Those little issues are overcome through excitement, the desire to make history and the hunger to win. We're in great shape. The main thing we need to manage is the pressure,' he concluded.