Manolo Sánchez leads CD Estepona toward safety: “We’ve closed the gap by 14 points, and now comes the best part”

CD Estepona coach Manolo Sánchez discussed his team’s strong run of form in an interview on the Área Malaguista program on 101TV Málaga, which aired on April 14, 2026. The coach highlighted the transformation of the Costa del Sol side, which has gone from a critical situation to holding its own in the fight for survival in the Second Federation.

Manolo explained that, upon his arrival, the team was in a very difficult situation: “we had a significant points deficit.” However, the turnaround has been remarkable. In his own words, the team has gone from being 14 points away from safety to “right in the mix” with three matchdays remaining—a scenario he acknowledges many would have signed up for weeks ago.

One of the pillars of this improvement has been the change in mindset. The coach is committed to an offensive model, focused on creating chances and prioritizing scoring over the fear of conceding: “I don’t care about conceding; I want to score goals and have people enjoy the game.” This philosophy, he explained, has liberated the players and improved their performance in the decisive stretch of the season.

In addition to the tactical aspect, Manolo emphasized the importance of the psychological component. The coach emphasized that the team has regained its confidence and joy in day-to-day life, something he considers key: “A soccer player has to enjoy himself; it’s the best job in the world.” This approach has allowed young players like Ale Contreras to step up and showcase their potential.

Another key factor in the team’s growth has been the presence of Julen Guerrero, whose arrival in the sporting director role has strengthened the club’s structure. Manolo highlighted his confidence in the project and his professional vision: “He has a very interesting approach and gives us tools to make the players’ work easier.”

As for the style of play, the coach acknowledged influences from teams like Dick Schreuder’s Castellón, opting for attacking soccer, with many players in the opponent’s half and constant pressure, even if that means taking defensive risks. “When you think about scoring, you’re closer to winning,” he stated.

CD Estepona now heads into the final few matchdays with a real chance of staying up, something that seemed unlikely just weeks ago. Manolo is clear on this: “We’ve done the hardest part. Now we have three great games ahead of us.”

Excerpt from the interview with Manolo Sánchez, coach of CD Estepona, on 101TV as part of the program “Área Malaguista.” You can watch the full program here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lsxdDqEM_2M