Oviedo, Spain – Real Oviedo goalkeeper Aarón Escandell delivered a blunt message to anyone questioning the team’s ability to avoid relegation from La Liga, stating plainly, “El que no crea, sinceramente, que se haga a un lado” – “Those who don’t believe, frankly, should step aside.” The 27-year-old spoke to the press following a difficult week for the club, capped by a 4-2 defeat against Levante, and ahead of a crucial match against Sevilla this Sunday.
Escandell, who has been with Real Oviedo since 2024, didn’t shy away from acknowledging the team’s recent struggles. “We’ve had a good week of training, every day. After what happened against Levante, where we didn’t compete… I think we need to change many details for the next match. That will be reflected on Sunday,” he said. The loss to Levante highlighted areas needing immediate improvement, and Escandell emphasized the need for collective responsibility.
Looking ahead to the match against Sevilla, Escandell anticipates a different opponent than the one they faced earlier in the season. “It’s going to be a different Sevilla than in the first half of the season. They will come with clear ideas and a solid 4-4-2 formation, being secure at the back. They will try to play long balls into our area. We don’t know for sure, but I think we need to focus on ourselves to turn things around.”
The goalkeeper admitted to a personal desire for revenge after conceding four goals in the previous encounter with Sevilla. “Of course, there’s a desire for revenge, especially on a personal level because they scored four against me. When someone scores against me, it really bothers me. The fans want Sunday to come quickly and for us to get a positive result.”
Despite the challenging circumstances, Escandell remains optimistic about Real Oviedo’s chances of staying in La Liga. “Anyone who doesn’t believe, honestly, should step aside. I think everyone should believe until the math says otherwise. This weekend is a new opportunity. If we beat Sevilla, One can get to within five points of safety. You’ll see many matches left to play, especially against direct rivals. It can be achieved, but it’s difficult because as the end of the season approaches, everything becomes more complicated. It has to start on Sunday.”
Escandell acknowledged the pressure from other teams in the relegation battle, noting that Levante’s defeat didn’t allow them to pull away significantly. “In the bottom half of the table, three or four teams are pushing everything they have. We are focused on winning and putting as much pressure as possible on our rivals. Let people know that we are not giving up.”
The goalkeeper also touched upon the team’s defensive improvements, stating, “It’s a collective effort. It’s a job for everyone. Now we’re scoring goals when we weren’t before. In recent weeks, we’ve been conceding more. That’s why I’m a bit angry on a personal level. We are working day by day to avoid conceding.”
When questioned about his future at the club, Escandell dismissed any speculation. “I’m not thinking about that. The only thing on my mind is day-to-day work and continuing to enjoy things despite the difficult situation we’re in. I don’t know what will happen in the future, but I have a contract here and I’m happy. My focus is on saving Oviedo, and then we’ll see.”
Escandell emphasized the crucial role of the fans in supporting the team. “I’ve always said it. I attended the Movistar event when they announced the promotion. I was very moved because I saw the people. They are fundamental. Without them, we wouldn’t have given the same effort on many occasions. Oviedo is what It’s because of its fans. They saved the club before. It may sound the same, but we need their extra support to keep rowing in the same direction, even if we end up dying at the shore.”
He continued, expressing his deep connection to the club and the city. “I feel very connected and very happy to be here because the first day I arrived, I was labeled as following in the footsteps of Leo Román, who was well-loved. From the first minute, the people welcomed me very well, both me and my family. I feel very comfortable. I think that’s been reflected in my performance. I couldn’t be happier anywhere else than Oviedo.”
Aarón Escandell’s career has seen him develop through the youth systems of Villarreal, Valencia, and Málaga CF before establishing himself as a professional. According to Wikipedia, he currently has 70 appearances for Real Oviedo as of March 26, 2026. His journey reflects a dedication to the sport and a commitment to his craft, qualities he now hopes to instill in his teammates as they fight for survival in La Liga.
Real Oviedo’s next challenge is a home match against Sevilla on Sunday. The match promises to be a pivotal moment in their season, and Escandell’s unwavering belief, coupled with the support of the Oviedo faithful, will be crucial as they strive to climb out of the relegation zone. The match is scheduled for a local start time to be announced, with global viewers able to find broadcast information through La Liga’s official channels.
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