Calderón: "In any other team it would be impossible to avoid relegation, but not at Betis"

"Being here is the dream of my life and I am convinced that we will turn this around", said the new manager

Accompanied by some former colleagues like Antonio Casado, Alex, Salva and Juan García Soriano, Gabi Calderón took the helm of the green-and-white ship stating that "this is the dream of my life. I have played in the World Cup, finals, but in this Stadium is where I was the happiest thanks to the Betis supporters. When I remember that silence it gives me goosebumps. That is how I feel today. In the club they know that I will suffer as much as anyone. Why did I come? Because I know that the situation is reversible. I am convinced that we will move forward. In any other team it would be impossible... but with Real Betis, no. We have 18 finals, there is no need to do the maths. We must be united, personal interests do not matter here. I have come to give my life for salvation and we are in the thick of the fight now. I'm not Maradona or Messi, but I am a winner. We are all important and we all have to give our all for the Club. We have the team so we have to fight too the death"

Transfers: "The Technical Secretariat and the Club were looking at players. In truth I don't have the time to look myself. I have been informed about the players of interest and I gave my opinion on them. The previous two coaches and I coincide so there is ground work that has already been done".

Reports on Erbes: "I have received references on him both from the Boca manager and other ex-players. He is a defensive player, aggressive, he recovers possession and he excels in these qualities. "

First talk with players: "Their faces showed their concern, the message went over well and now we need time for them to see what I am capable of. I am convinced that we will pull this thing around. The situation is clear. If you don't connect with the players then it's hard to be successful. There will be a major change in the team".

Your team of collaborators: "I have brought the staff I have been working with for the last few years, including Anzarda. The goal is for everyone to help. Cañas has offered to be on the pitch and I value that a lot because it is important that everyone lends a hand. That will be the work group together with doctors etc. ".

The message: "That's my responsibility, that the players get the message. I will work in the same way as I have till now and in two weeks you will have to ask the players".

Your dream: "Being here is the dream of my life but I truly am convinced that we will manage to get through this. I've experienced troubles before in my life and at this stage I am sure that we will move forward. The fact that there are former team mates of mine here makes me happy and I feel young because I remember when we played together".

The state of the squad: "I think it's more psychological than physical. I would put it down to psychological issues. I have seen them playing on the TV. Players have to get it into their heads that Friday is a final and not think beyond that".