Ernesto Valverde has assessed that Valencia must pick up maximum points to the end of the season to try and achieve Champions League qualification.
Los Che are currently fifth in La Liga, but have the opportunity with their trip to Rayo Vallecano on Sunday to briefly overtake Real Sociedad in fourth, who currently sit two points ahead, but do not play until Monday night.
Meanwhile, Valencia’s game this weekend is set at the lunchtime date, but Valverde does not see it as reason to complain ahead of a game he is gunning for three points from.
“It is a schedule that does not displease me. I think it is good, regardless of our statistics,” commented the 48-year-old to reporters today.
“I have no fear of the times, but the opponent, who are a unique team, and that we only have three away games in the last four rounds.
“On Sunday we face the first of four finals, although it is true that we are also depending on Real Sociedad’s results.
“If we win, we will be in the position on Sunday, we’ll see what Monday brings [when La Real play].
“If we are to get into the Champions League, we cannot fail, we have no margin for error.
“Did I believe when I took over in November that we’d be in contention now for fourth? Yes, I thought we would have every chance.
“Moreover, if we win on Sunday the it would be a very important step towards playing in the Europa League. A few days ago all the teams were together and now we have opened up a gap.
“Rayo? They are a good team, they attack with many players. But where the reverse fixture was very closed, I think that Sunday’s will be very open, whilst again, Rayo have a very good team. We have to be careful.”
