Coach devastated by fans' tears after Rayo Vallecano's Conference League final loss

Rayo Vallecano's European campaign concluded without the desired triumph, as they fell 1-0 to Crystal Palace in the Conference League final. The loss meant Crystal Palace secured their first-ever European trophy and maintained the perfect record of English teams in the competition.

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It's difficult to see people crying and trying to support each other; that's what tears you apart inside.

Following the match, Rayo's coach, Iñigo Pérez, appeared visibly emotional when speaking to Spanish media, particularly about the reaction of Rayo's supporters after the title loss. Pérez, who is considered a favorite to succeed Marcelino at Villarreal, admitted that witnessing the fans' tears deeply affected him psychologically.

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They were tactically superior. We couldn't get close to victory, and I think we have to congratulate them.

"It's difficult to see people crying and trying to support each other; that's what tears you apart inside," Pérez stated, reflecting on the devastating impact of the fans' despair. He acknowledged Crystal Palace's tactical superiority, conceding that his team couldn't get close to victory and deserved congratulations. Pérez described the first half as tight, with neither team willing to make a mistake, and noted that the goal came from a single moment that impacted his team. Despite this, he felt they reacted and moved past the feeling of not being themselves.

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It's hard to find a group like this. I've been in very good dressing rooms, but this team is special. They are players who truly love each other and forgive each other's mistakes.

Reflecting on his squad, Pérez highlighted the unique bond within the team. "It's hard to find a group like this. I've been in very good dressing rooms, but this team is special. They are players who truly love each other and forgive each other's mistakes," he said. When asked about his future as Rayo's coach, Pérez expressed discomfort discussing personal matters at such a sensitive time, especially with the stadium full of their fans. He emphasized that the initial shock is painful and leaves one feeling empty, knowing how dedicated the players were and how much they gave for the team. He hopes the foundation they've built will continue to grow, recalling their celebration of qualifying for the Conference League just a year prior.

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It's not the right time to talk about it. The stadium is full of Rayo fans, and I feel very uncomfortable.