Rayo Vallecano manager Inigo Perez emphasized the importance of focusing on the upcoming semi-final against Strasbourg, urging his team to stop dreaming about the Conference League and treat this match as a reality. He acknowledged it as potentially one of the biggest games in the club’s history and expressed confidence in his squad’s readiness.

Injury updates revealed that Luiz Felipe and Alvaro Garcia would miss the match, but goalkeeper Augusto Batalla is fit to play. Perez refrained from commenting on the ban of Isi Palazon. Joking about their previous match against AEK Athens, he highlighted the necessity of capitalizing on their home advantage in the first leg.

Despite the high stakes, Perez maintained that his squad felt comfortable at Vallecas, dismissing any concerns about nerves. He noted, "There’s a sense of urgency for the hours to pass so that everything can begin. We feel comfortable in Vallecas."

Describing the match as crucial, Perez remarked that its significance would vary among fans but recognized its potential to be memorable. He stressed the mental aspect of the game, declaring it to be 99% of the battle.

Discussing Rayo’s unique position in the tournament, he pointed out their distinct social and political identity, which he hopes will reflect on the pitch.

As for the challenge posed by Strasbourg, he acknowledged their youthful, attacking style and the need for his team to maintain their identity. When asked about the hypothetical scenario of accepting relegation for a European victory, Perez firmly stated, "I’d rather lose a final than be relegated, which causes a pain that’s hard to overcome."

The first leg kicks off on Thursday night at 21:00 CEST in Vallecas, with the return leg scheduled for the same time next week at the Stade de la Meinau.