Julián Calero, the head coach of Real Oviedo, has outlined the core principles of the club's project following a key trip to Mexico. The manager met in Pachuca with Jesús Martínez, president of the Pachuca Group, to align the club's philosophy for the 2026/27 season in the Segunda División, where the team currently sits 14th with 4 points.
What was the purpose of Calero's trip to Mexico?
The main goal of the visit was to lay the foundations for Real Oviedo's sporting project. Calero, who is in Pachuca, took the opportunity to learn firsthand about the work model of the club's ownership group. The coach described the experience as "very enriching" both professionally and personally. "Me he llevado una sorpresa muy positiva con la organización y con todo lo que significa el proyecto universitario," stated Calero, who highlighted the extreme care taken in developing young footballers.
These conversations confirmed the alignment between the manager's football vision and that of the group. Calero revealed there had been preliminary contact a few weeks ago and that, despite having other options including from the Primera División, he chose Oviedo for the chance to build something solid long-term. Direct contact with Jesús Martínez reinforced his conviction about the existing commitment.
What are the pillars of the new Oviedo?
The coach was clear in stating the fundamental values. Unity within the club is presented as a non-negotiable pillar. "We all must row in the same direction, because if not, we weaken," explained Calero. He insisted there are more things that unite than divide and they must use that base to grow.
Alongside unity, daily work and humility complete the essential triad. Calero underlined that the future is built from the present, with a realistic view of immediate demands. Football, he recalled, forces you to live in the short term. The current focus is on readjusting and rebuilding a competitive team, a process in which the squad is still being configured, with significant absences like Chris Ramos, Ilyas Chaira, and Carlos Fernández, detailed on our injuries page.
What kind of team does the coach want to build?
Calero is betting on a balanced team with character. His priority is to have the right raw material (the players) and give it a solid structure. He seeks a competitive squad capable of dominating all phases of the game: one that attacks well, defends well, and knows how to react at every moment of the match. Order and commitment are basic requirements in his approach.
This construction process unfolds as the team searches for its rhythm in the competition. With a record of one goal scored and one conceded after three matchdays, the objective is to improve effectiveness. The next challenge is a trip to Valladolid on September 13th, a key match against a rival also fighting to get going, as seen in the standings.
What role do the fans and the club's history play?
The coach did not forget to address the blue supporters, whom he thanked for their unconditional backing. Calero acknowledged that Real Oviedo has overcome difficult moments thanks to its people and that the fans can be found anywhere. He expressed the desire for supporters to feel proud of a team that fights and represents the club's values.
"Todos sabemos dónde merece estar el Real Oviedo por historia y por grandeza, pero en el fútbol las palabras son sencillas y los hechos son los que cuentan," the coach stated. He prefers to talk about work and building a solid base, aware that the Segunda División is a tremendously demanding category. The team, which is four points behind leaders Leganés, will try its utmost without renouncing anything. The roadmap is set and the first test will be at the José Zorrilla, as part of a fixtures schedule that will define the start of the season.
