Castro's Levante revolution: 'Every match is a cup final'
New Levante boss Luís Castro outlines his survival plan ahead of tough Sevilla clash, emphasizing defensive improvements and tactical flexibility.
New Levante manager Luís Castro isn’t mincing his words as he embarks on his rescue mission with the Valencia outfit, making it crystal clear that every remaining fixture is essentially a cup final in their battle for survival.
First Test at the Sánchez Pizjuán
The Portuguese gaffer faces a baptism of fire with his Primera División debut coming away at Sevilla - hardly the dream start when you’re fighting for your life at the wrong end of the table. But Castro appears undaunted, having already identified weaknesses in the Andalusian side that his team can potentially exploit.
“It’s a team very aggressive in their high press,” Castro explained about Sevilla, noting their preference for rapid transitions over patient build-up play. While acknowledging their quality, he’s confident Levante can cause problems of their own.
Defensive Headaches
With 29 goals conceded in just 19 matches, sorting out Levante’s leaky defence is clearly top of Castro’s to-do list. His philosophy, however, takes a holistic approach:
- Possession as a defensive tool - “If you have the ball, they can’t hurt you”
- Attacking well is part of defending well
- Balance is the ultimate goal
Castro revealed he’s been analyzing all their defensive lapses and working intensively to address these issues before the Sevilla clash.
Personnel Matters
On the injury front, there’s mixed news with Koyalipou nearing a return while Víctor García faces an anxious wait on test results after experiencing problems in training.
The new boss also had special words for talented youngster Carlos Álvarez, insisting he needs to be positioned “in decisive zones” whether out wide or centrally. “He’s a player with different qualities and we want him close to the center of play,” Castro explained.
Portuguese Pedigree
Despite this being his Primera División bow, Castro is hardly a stranger to Spanish football, having followed the league since childhood like many Portuguese football aficionados. He also brings valuable set-piece expertise, having recruited a specialist who previously helped Benfica B become Portugal’s most effective team from dead-ball situations.
With his experience in similar relegation battles at French side Dunkerque, Castro knows the score - you won’t win every match, but giving 100% in each game brings you closer to survival. For Levante fans hoping for a great escape, that fighting spirit could be just what the doctor ordered.