Celta de Vigo executive Sergio Álvarez said the Europa League is a reward for the team, but emphasized that Celta de Vigo wants to compete seriously.

The composed Sergio Álvarez views Celta de Vigo's winless start to the new season calmly and remains optimistic about the team's prospects. Celta de Vigo's Europa League campaign begins with an away match against Omonia Nicosia of Cyprus.

Before boarding the five-hour flight from Peinador Airport, the Celta de Vigo executive downplayed concerns about the long journey. He said: "It's a long journey, but being able to return to Europe for the second consecutive year should be a very big motivation." He added: "For us, it's a reward, and it should be seen that way. But we want to enjoy it and also compete seriously."

Álvarez stated: "I'm not worried about the results; I'm just very eager for the first win." The former Celta de Vigo goalkeeper believes that despite the team not having won yet, "the club, coaching staff, and fans are all calm."

Álvarez is confident the team can claim victory in Cyprus but warned that the match will not be easy. He said: "It will be a tough match on difficult ground. We know that every match in European competition is challenging, especially away games. However, we proved last season that we are a competitive team regardless of the stadium. We will do our best to get the first three points and make a strong start."

He also noted: "No team participating in European competition can be underestimated, especially at home. We must stay focused."

Álvarez thanked the 60 fans traveling with the team to Cyprus. He said: "Considering the long journey, that's a significant number."Álvarez rejected the notion that prize money creates pressure to win. He stated: "The pressure is on the sporting side. When you participate in a competition, you want to do your best, and of course, if it also brings financial support, that's even better. But what we want most is for the players to be competitive, win these three points, and be ready for the knockout stage."

Álvarez concluded: "Last year we played in some very difficult stadiums, and that gave us experience that maybe we didn't have before."

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