AEK introduced its new coach, Rubén Segues, at a press conference held at the “AEK Arena.”
The Spanish coach said he was pleased to be joining the Larnaca-based team, whose progress he has been following in recent years, and noted that there is a… connection to his home country. At the same time, he emphasized that the roster is largely complete but did not rule out the possibility of further reinforcements, and then analyzed his team’s playing style.
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He also noted that it’s unusual to take over just a few days before the start of the league season, but expressed his eagerness for the season opener against APOEL. As for his motivation, he emphasized that he simply… loves soccer.
Meanwhile, the “yellow-and-greens’” technical director, Xavi Roca, stated that he is the right coach and has the ideal profile for the team’s project.
Key points from the remarks
Xavi Roca (Technical Director)
His comment on Seyes: “Thank you for coming today. I believe he is the right coach to lead us this year; he has the right profile both as a person and as a coach. He has our full support.”
On the criteria for hiring Segues: “The number one priority when it comes to his profile is winning games. Often, such a candidate isn’t available on the market, especially at this time. In this case, he is a young coach but one with experience. He’s approached coaching from various angles and has a deeper understanding of certain aspects of the sport. He’s worked in several countries as well as in top leagues, such as the English Premier League. The most important thing is the human factor—being able to discuss and communicate. He fits in well with many of the qualities we’re looking for at AEK.”
Rubén Segui (Coach)
Initial comment: “I’m very pleased to be here; from the very first moment I spoke with Xavi, I wanted to accept the challenge. I’ve been following AEK’s progress; I know there’s a connection to Spain. It’s a project characterized by stability. It’s a bit unusual that I’m taking over just a few days before the start of the league season, but that’s no excuse. I’m looking forward to the season opener in front of our fans.”
On how he followed AEK and his motivation: “I watched the team in Europe under Iraola as coach; they had an excellent run. I’ve also been watching the teams here that have played against other teams. Idiakez had a good season. Roberts was one of my players 18 years ago. I’m aware of the work being done here. As for my motivation… I love soccer. We’ll be going for the win in every game. I like the ambition this team has. We’ll go on the attack to get the win in our season opener against APOEL.”
On AEK’s roster: “One of the reasons I accepted this challenge is the roster. I believe the roster is largely complete and I’m satisfied with it. We’re in the final days of the transfer window and we’re reviewing it. I’ve only been with the team for a few days, but that’s no excuse. My message to the fans is that we’ll give it our all in every game. We want them by our side for every match.”
His goals and style of play: “I have a clear vision of how we’ll perform. There are only a few days left until the derby against APOEL. Moving forward, I want to see a team that attacks the right way and maintains possession, is aggressive, and solid defensively. Let’s stick to the basic principles and ideas for Saturday’s derby.”
