Capdevila keeps focus on Salzburg tie

Winning at home to PFC Levski Sofia on Matchday 1 was a good start for Villarreal CF in UEFA Europa League Group G but they cannot expect an easy ride when they visit FC Salzburg next Thursday.

Special venue
For the Yellow Submarine there may be choppy waters ahead, particularly after the Austrian side began their campaign with a 2-1 victory at S.S. Lazio. Nonetheless, full-back Joan Capdevila will relish returning to a country where, 15 months ago, he won UEFA EURO 2008™ in such style with Spain. While Ernesto Valverde's team travel to the Stadion Salzburg with point-gathering in mind, Capdevila told uefa.com that the trip will also bring back fond memories, even if Spain's game at the venue, against Greece, was the only EURO assignment he missed.

Great backing
"I have fantastic memories of Austria, both for our experience with the national team and the fact the country itself is just lovely," Capdevila said. "The Austrian public treated us tremendously well and I learned that it is a country that would be terrific to visit. There are so many things to do and such a good welcome waiting for you. I was rested for that third group game against Greece, but what I noted was that they have a very good atmosphere there. The fans are very close to the pitch and the playing surface is excellent. We have to expect a difficult match but the Europa League is a great competition and Villarreal will go there for three points."

Heavy workload
One of those players who have had almost non-stop football for two years due to Spain's involvement in UEFA EURO 2008™ and this summer's FIFA Confederations Cup in South Africa, Capdevila insists he welcomes the pressure. "I'm mad about football, it's my passion," the 31-year-old said. "If I meet someone who doesn't love football, then I don't understand them. Like the rest of the world, I love football. It's a privilege to play, particularly at this level, so I'm not feeling the strain. However, football is changing. To talk about favourites these days strikes me as strange. Salzburg defeated a club [Lazio] that people might have called favourites, both for that match and the group. We know they will be very difficult opponents."