Álex Quintanilla: "We're a squad where each one of us knows that we can be starters or substitutes"

Álex Quintanilla made his Ibiza debut last weekend. He hadn't played an official match since April (when he was still playing for Córdoba) and he couldn't wait to get back into the rhythm of competition. The match in Oviedo left him with positive sensations. "I hadn't played in quite some time, but physically I felt really good. I'm still adjusting and adapting myself to the team's style of play and I am very happy with how my teammates have helped me integrate. Being a footballer, you need to be patient and know when you have to wait for your opportunity in order to be ready when that chance presents itself", explained the defender during today's press conference.

Quintanilla wasn't fazed by having to wait until round ten of the current season until he could accumulate his first minutes as a sky blue: "We're a squad where each one of us knows that we can be both starters or substitutes. Teams are successful when players know how to change their roles and know what they have to do in different situations to fight in a healthy and competitive way. Over the course of a season, based on my experience, I believe that this is a key factor".

The Bilbao-born player also analysed Sunday's fixture. Visiting the island will be Atlético de Madrid B, a team that is in "similar" situation as Ibiza. The atmosphere at Can Misses is expected to be exceptional. Three important points are on the line. "I was positively surprised by how the people embrace the team and show their enthusiasm. The fans really want to support and push us on. That gives you such pleasure and joy to play at home", said Quintanilla, "and [the match against Atlético de Madrid] it will be a great game. We're only thinking about winning this next game. We have to try to play our game and create conditions that will allow us to keep the three points on the island".

Apart from the final scoreboard at the end of Sunday's match, the central defender believes that the team's start to the season should remind Ibiza of its long-term objectives: "Sometimes, results don't reflect the efforts you put into a game. Even so, it's important to keep up and put in those efforts, because in the long run, that's what will bring you positive results".