The penultimate press conference of the season featured Lolo Escobar as he faced a mix of support and scrutiny. The Hercules coach stressed his desire to honor the contract he signed and acknowledged the disappointment surrounding not meeting the season’s goals. With one match left in Ibiza on Sunday, the team still pursues a single objective to qualify for the King’s Cup, making competition tighter than ever.
“I approach the match with strong motivation. We aim to grab the three points so we can climb to sixth place”, Escobar stated in the press room. He emphasized that reaching sixth would bring relief and that the pursuit of league position matters even when a cup appearance is possible. He added that the year should be viewed in total, with the chance to improve the standings serving as a measure of progress for the club and its supporters.
Lolo Escobar, in the air
Caesar Hernandez
As for his future, Escobar was clear about his commitment: he wants to fulfill the year remaining on his contract and continues to feel strong about his work at Hercules. He noted that criticism or setbacks do not change his motivation. He believes finishing what he started is essential and that there is still work to be done to reach the club’s goals. He also said he has reflected enough on what happened and remains focused on the tasks ahead. When a goal is not reached, disappointment follows, but it does not define the season’s overall value.
Lolo Escobar: I really want this season to end
Pedro Rojas
The coach acknowledged the importance of preparing the squad for the next season and explained that discussing future profiles with the sports commission would be difficult and potentially controversial. If there is any criticism, Escobar sees it as part of his work and remains determined to be as competitive as possible. He also highlighted a positive working relationship with the technical secretary, Paco Pena, noting that the collaboration has been respectful and productive and has made his job easier.
Regarding the lineup that drew criticism in the recent match against Atlético Saguntino, Escobar defended his decisions. He said changes were made because they represented the best plan to win. He did not overthink his approach, and he trusted the players with the best rhythm and training to seize the opportunity. He pointed out that he was fortunate to score in the final moments and stressed that his choices were aimed at maximizing the team’s chances to win the game. He spoke with a serious tone about the scrutiny he faces and the frustration shared by fans and supporters.
Escobar acknowledged that the club and its fans have endured years of disappointment, but he believes victories can ease that burden. The absence of wins has kept the pressure high, yet the coach remains committed to finishing the season strong and learning from every moment. He underscored the importance of the final stretch and the dedication required to reach the season’s closure on a positive note.
The Olot game was a real test for everyone, and Escobar described the team’s approach to the last training sessions as one of competitive tension. He noted that the process of chasing a goal can tire the body, but that it is a necessary part of pushing for success. He spoke about the long hours invested in trying to achieve the goal, the moments of fatigue, and the rare chances to unwind, such as a brief escape to the beach, which he mentioned only in passing as part of balancing life and sport.