Crystal Palace forward Yeremy Pino previews the Conference League final against Rayo Vallecano, praising his compatriots while insisting their shared nationality won’t dampen his competitive fire.
Crystal Palace forward Yeremy Pino declared on Tuesday that he possesses “nerves of steel” ahead of the Conference League final. Despite facing fellow Spaniards in Rayo Vallecano, Pino insisted he is ready to “go for the throat” in pursuit of silverware.
The 23-year-old Canary Islander has enjoyed a productive debut campaign at Selhurst Park, making 50 appearances and registering five goals for the Eagles.
“I have nerves of steel. This is my sixth final, and I feel the same tension as I did for the others,” Pino told reporters. “The Conference League is a tournament many people overlook, but it is a hugely significant title for the club and for me personally, and we are determined to win it.”
The forward admitted he knows his opponents, Rayo Vallecano, “well,” adding: “They have been performing excellently, and it will be a very tough encounter. I have shared insights with my teammates and friends, and we will give everything to ensure we come out on top.”
“Facing a Spanish team makes no difference; it would hurt just as much to lose to anyone else,” noted the Spanish international, who is set to represent his country at the World Cup under Luis de la Fuente. “Even though they are a Spanish side, I’m going out there to fight for every ball. Spanish teams usually excel in Europe, but we are going out there with a winning mentality.”
“I have entered these final months of the season with real confidence. While I don’t view the World Cup as an added bonus, it is certainly a massive source of motivation,” he concluded.