"I expect them at 200 per cent"

Celta manager Giráldez warns his side must match Salamanca's intensity in Friday's Copa del Rey first-round tie at the Helmántico.

Celta manager Claudio Giráldez has urged his players to start with maximum intensity in Friday's Copa del Rey first-round match against Salamanca at the Helmántico, warning that the visitors will arrive "at 200 per cent" and his team must match that effort to avoid elimination.

Giráldez praised Salamanca's current form and their manager's tactical approach, emphasizing that cup ties are inherently intense affairs where any drop in intensity puts you at a disadvantage from the start. He stressed his players need to play every minute with the required intensity against a rival with the resources to hurt them.

The Celta boss confirmed he will rotate his squad, partly to give opportunities to fringe players and partly due to injury absences. Five players remain sidelined and will not be available, while defender Cáceres is away on international duty. Giráldez has called up eight reserve team players but noted that only four can be on the pitch at any time and a maximum of six can participate during the match.