Castro's emotional plea to Levante fans after derby defeat: 'We need you to achieve it'
Levante boss Luis Castro made a passionate appeal to supporters after the Valencia derby, climbing the advertising boards to address the ultras directly.
Amidst growing relegation fears, Levante manager Luis Castro showed his leadership mettle with a powerful gesture to supporters following their latest derby disappointment.
The Portuguese coach made a beeline for the most vocal section of the Ciutat de Valencia stadium immediately after the match, climbing onto the advertising hoardings to directly address the ‘Levante Fans’ ultras group in a moment that will live long in the memory.
Passionate plea
Accompanied by first-team players Etta Eyong and Nacho Pérez, Castro delivered an impassioned speech aimed at maintaining unity during this difficult period as the club battles to preserve their top-flight status.
“The players have given their maximum. They’ve run and they’ve tried,” Castro told the supporters. “It’s football and you can lose or win, but what’s critical now is that we all stick together.”
The gaffer’s point was crystal clear - while results haven’t been up to scratch, questioning the squad’s commitment and effort isn’t the answer as they fight for survival.
Unwavering belief
Castro’s touchline display of leadership wasn’t just for show. He doubled down on his message during the post-match press conference, making it abundantly clear he hasn’t thrown in the towel on Levante’s season.
Despite their precarious position, the manager expressed his determination to continue fighting until mathematical relegation becomes a reality - which he hopes won’t happen at all.
“I believe. Tomorrow morning I’ll go to Buñol with great desire to train and give my maximum for the club,” Castro stated in his media duties.
“When I came, I knew the difficult situation the club was in. I came because I believe it’s possible. If there comes a day when mathematically it’s no longer possible, I’ll say so that day. Until then, I’ll keep working.”
Looking ahead
The passionate scenes following the derby defeat highlight the growing tension around Levante’s battle against the drop. Castro clearly understands that maintaining supporter backing will be crucial in the remaining fixtures.
While the derby loss was a proper kick in the Hampstead Heath, Castro’s connection with the fans shows he’s not just focused on tactics but also the emotional aspects needed for a successful relegation scrap.
For Levante to have any chance of pulling off what would be a right Bobby Dazzler of an escape, they’ll need that unified approach Castro is desperately trying to foster.