Copa del Rey Fever: Cantabria Prepares for the “Most In-Form Team in the World”
Racing Santander boss José Alberto López didn’t hold back in his pre-match press conference ahead of Thursday’s Copa del Rey Round of 16 clash against Barcelona. With the El Sardinero stadium expected to be at full capacity, the manager described the fixture as a long-awaited “reward” for a region that has spent over a decade in the footballing wilderness.
A Tribute to the Fans
In a quote that has quickly gone viral, José Alberto emphasized the symbolic weight of hosting the Catalan giants:
“Our fans have endured thirteen years of crap. Our fans are top-notch, and we expect to live up to their expectations,” he declared, via Mundo Deportivo.
After years of facing lower-league opponents far from the spotlight, Racing—who currently lead the Segunda División alongside Las Palmas—view this match as proof of their rebirth.
Respecting the Giant, Believing in the Miracle
Despite his tough rhetoric, José Alberto was full of praise for Hansi Flick’s (ou o técnico atual) Barcelona, calling them “the most in-form team” and “one of the best in the world.” However, the underdog spirit is alive in Santander. “When the ball starts rolling, it’s 50-50,” José Alberto claimed, insisting that his side can compete if they reach their tactical peak.
📋 CONVOCATORIA | Estos son los elegidos por José Alberto para el partido de mañana (21:00 horas) ante el @FCBarcelona_es #RacingBarça #CopaDelReyMAPFRE pic.twitter.com/bZrBBoaM7H
— Real Racing Club (@realracingclub) January 14, 2026
Promotion Remains the Priority
While the cup clash is the “prize,” Racing’s eyes are firmly set on a return to La Liga.
- The Standings: Racing is currently tied for 1st place in the second tier with 38 points.
- The Schedule: A massive “six-pointer” against promotion rivals Las Palmas looms this Sunday.
- The “Pasillo”: In a display of sportsmanship, Racing will perform the traditional pasillo (guard of honor) for Barcelona following their recent Super Cup triumph.
