Rodrigo Ely: We have to prove that we're very strong at home

'We have to prove that we're very strong at home,' exclaimed UD Almería centre-back Rodrigo Ely as he caught up with UDA Radio, the Club's official radio station. 'We can make our presence known in the league against Athletic Club de Bilbao this Saturday,' he firmly believes. 

 

The Brazilian central defender praises the adversaries' huge potential, but at the same time, he stressed: 'We feel confident and on top of that, we're going to have the support of our fans, which is essential.' 

 

For the 29-year-old footballer says: 'It doesn't matter who we're playing, every game is a relegation battle,' although he specified: 'Those games against direct rivals will be even more important.' The imminent one and the only one he thinks about right now is Saturday's fixture at the Power Horse Stadium: 'It'll be nice and also really tough due to Athletic's identity and potential. Everyone talks about the Williams brothers, who are brilliant players, but their squad is full of great footballers. They're an intense and competitive team.' 

 

In addition, the Lajeado native made it  clear: 'We have to compete as a team to weaken their strengths and also to play our football. Hopefully, we get things right to pick up the three points.' 

 

The former Italy U20 and Brazil U23 international produced a moment of magic against Ath. Bilbao in his spell at Deportivo Alavés. When asked about it, he replied: 'I haven't scored goals this season yet. I hope I'll and if I can score against Athletic again... better, but what really matters now isn't who nets but to win this vital game for us.'