Protesoni: "The team's situation brings a different kind of joy"

Carlos Protesoni faced the media on Thursday to assess Deportivo Alavés' start to the league season and his first start, which came last Saturday at San Mamés. The Uruguayan midfielder spoke about a draw that keeps the team in good spirits and explained how the squad is approaching a three-week international break that interrupts the rhythm of competition.

• Protesoni made his first start in the goalless draw against Athletic Club at San Mamés.
• Alavés have made a solid start to the league season with no major concerns in the table.
• The three-week break will be used to balance workloads and add physical training.
• Facu Garcés' injury came just as the player was close to returning.
• The squad sees survival as the first target before looking further up the table.

A point at San Mamés that strengthens Alavés

The draw in the Basque derby left a positive feeling in the Alavés dressing room. Protesoni explained that they knew how important it was to take points and keep a clean sheet in order to feel more relaxed. That point helps the team keep adding to a promising start that, according to the Uruguayan, is reflected in the mood of the group.

We knew we had to take points and also how important it was to keep a clean sheet to feel a bit calmer. The point in the derby helps us a lot.

Three weeks without competition: an unusual break to balance workloads

The international calendar leaves teams almost a month without official matches. Protesoni admitted the pause is surprising because of its length, although it had been planned. The squad had already come to terms with it and is treating it as a chance to fine-tune their physical preparation and make sure no player falls behind.

The player noted he has been working hard with the fitness coaches and has changed some habits. That work has allowed him to reach the opening stretch of the season in good shape, and he hopes to keep it up during these weeks without matches.

Versatility as an asset: center-back or midfielder

Protesoni said he is open to playing in different positions depending on what Quique Sánchez Flores asks of him. He explained that speaking with the coach helped him understand that he had to make the most of every opportunity, especially because being able to perform in two roles is a major advantage. That flexibility makes him a valuable option for the team.

The Uruguayan stressed the need to stay alert, listen and learn so he can respond whenever the coach needs him. His approach points to becoming a useful piece in Alavés' system, whether in midfield or dropping back into defense.

Facu Garcés' injury, a blow for the dressing room

The setback for Facu Garcés has not gone down well in the group. Protesoni expressed regret that the center-back got injured just when he was close to returning and sent him a message of support. The squad remains united and confident that the defender will be back competing soon.

Alavés' target: survival first, then looking up the table

Protesoni made the team's roadmap clear: secure safety first and, once that is done, aim for more ambitious positions. That calm in the standings, he explained, brings a different kind of joy and a greater ease during the week. The team enjoys the day-to-day more and competes with a different mindset compared to tense moments.

I think we cannot lose sight of our goal, which above all is survival. And then, further ahead, to look up the table. That would be fantastic.

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