Hercules’ new coach Lolo Escobar spoke at a press conference about his plan for the upcoming match against Deportivo Aragón this Sunday. He said he will rely on logic and avoid inventing gimmicks in his first XI. The coach, who works from Extremadura, announced several changes to remind the squad that certain aspects were not functioning and that they remain in the fight for promotion. His aim is clear: to make Hercules as competitive as possible and to stop the defensive bleeding. He added that he is not a revolutionary, but a rational manager who will stamp his eleven directly on the field. The team must understand that the current style of play needs adjustment, so changes are on the way.
Escobar expressed satisfaction with the week’s effort from the players, yet emphasized that the main concern is how they compete on matchday. He wants to see them push themselves, to prove they belong and to demonstrate a strong competitive spirit. Training went well, and the coach acknowledged that a true test lies in performing under pressure during the game and showing the necessary grit to secure a result. The question now is how the team will rise to the occasion and compete with purpose.
Escobar also pointed out that the Zaragoza reserve team showed a progression, moving from a cautious approach to a more assertive presence in contests. He stressed that the image Hercules presents on the field can carry more weight than the opponent’s tendencies. When a team makes changes, faces shift because every player wants to impress and earn a starting spot. Over time, a reset occurs and a new phase begins. Each player will approach the challenges differently as the season unfolds.
Lolo Escobar: “Hercules is a wounded animal, I want to see a change in my attitude”
The aim for the coach is to prevent Hercules from lingering in a negative cycle caused by injuries and a run of bad results. He noted that there will be several squad members who could be available for Sunday, while others may have to be relied upon from the bench. Within the resources available, the team will strive to be as competitive as possible. It’s not a guarantee that every trusted name will play, but the priority is to field a group that can deliver. Escobar expressed a desire to see a Sunday performance that demonstrates personality and cohesion, and he outlined four goals he wants the team to meet on the pitch. Everyone recognizes there is room for improvement and time is needed for things to gel.
When asked about the potential inclusion of certain players in the lineup, Escobar clarified that he evaluates players by the faces he sees rather than by numbers or identifiers. He wants his stamp to be evident in this match, while noting that despite the pressure, the team must offer something different and meaningful. He also admitted concerns about missing players and the implications for Sunday’s game, mentioning that Marcos could return if he passes the final training session, while Dylan has shown good form in training and faces selection considerations as well.
Lolo Escobar: few words and a lot of work
The coach underlined that a victory would bolster the team’s growth and acknowledged the frustration among Hercules supporters who planned protests around the match. He urged the players to respond with actions that justify supporters’ hopes. Escobar stressed the importance of starting the new phase with momentum. He said a win in the opening game, coupled with energetic performances on the pitch, would be a welcome sign for everyone involved. Building a positive atmosphere behind the scenes is essential, and the coach believes the team must earn that support with consistent, purposeful displays.
Escobar emphasized that the most meaningful change begins with clear and convincing performances on the field. He argued that to shift the mood, the team must deliver compelling football and win over the fans. The coach remains focused on steady progress and the steps required to reach the level of the competition, hoping to balance ambition with realistic expectations for this phase of the season.