Iván 'Pichu' Cuéllar isn't done yet. 

The goalkeeper and oldest player to represent the club in our history has signed a new deal with the club that will run until 2027. Find out what Pichu had to say below: 

How are you approaching this new contract extension?

“With the same enthusiasm I had on my first day. You know full well that the seasons go by and that the day is drawing ever closer when you’ll no longer be able to enjoy what you love most. I refuse to accept that, and only one word comes to mind: gratitude. I’d like to thank everyone who makes it possible for me to continue enjoying what I love most and, above all, to try to help those around me.” 

And with a role that everyone is praising…

“It’s true that you often have to accept the fact that you’re not going to be as much of a leading man as you’d like. And when I say leading man, I mean the main protagonist. I’m the typical supporting actor who stays in the background and helps others take centre stage. That doesn’t mean I wouldn’t like to be the lead or that I don’t do everything I can to be one; I do, or at least I try every day, because that’s what keeps me alive and just as enthusiastic as on the very first day. But you also have to realise that there may come a time when others, rather than you, take centre stage. And that also says a lot about understanding how the industry works – the fact that there are different roles doesn’t mean you’re any less important; it just means you have to accept and understand what you need to do at any given moment.”

Last season you became the most senior player in the club’s history. Building on that record is also a personal incentive, isn’t it?

“They’re small challenges. Ultimately, the statistics define you, and they’re interesting because achieving things and making your mark in football history in a division – in such an important league – isn’t something I think is all that easy. In that sense, it’s a footnote that in turn becomes a personal challenge, but as I always say, the most important thing is the team. It would be interesting if they helped me achieve it, but what matters to me is that the team is doing well in the division and, obviously, that it achieves the objectives it sets for itself as a group.”

In that sense, the challenge is to regain promotion. Given your experience, what will be key?

“The most important thing is to be aware of where you are. The past is the past, and you have to focus on the present. Finding yourself in a division that Mallorca has already experienced – and where the club is fully aware of the difficulties it presents – doesn’t mean you’re prepared for it. The sooner you come to terms with it, adapt and realise what you’re going to face, the fewer surprises you’re likely to encounter. So, I believe it’s time to join forces, to let the fans know that they’re going to be vital for the team and that, ultimately, when we’re all pulling in the same direction, we’re obviously much stronger and, above all, believe in our shared goal. In that sense, what I hope to see is a Mallorca side that’s entertaining, a cheerful Mallorca and, above all, one that brings us joy. It’s absolutely vital, at this stage, that we regain that sense of excitement and joy so that people can enjoy the football.”