A New Mindset Fuels Goal Surge
Sergio Camello is enjoying his most prolific season in La Liga, having scored seven goals in just seven games for Rayo Vallecano. The forward attributes this career-best form to a “freer approach” to football, influenced by personal reflection and support. This impressive run places him among Europe’s top scorers, with only Barcelona‘s Raphinha having netted more across the continent’s top five leagues.
Rediscovering the Joy of Football
Camello revealed that conversations with friends, including his twin brother Gonzalo, and sessions in therapy have been instrumental in helping him reconnect with the enjoyment he felt playing football as a child. He described finding it easier than expected to change his mindset, allowing him to be himself and play with greater freedom. This shift has helped him overcome past pressures, where setbacks could lead to frustration and negativity. He previously recorded league totals of five, three, and three goals in prior campaigns, making his current tally a significant personal best.
Tactical Shifts and Community Spirit
Beyond the personal changes, new coach Beñat San José has also made tactical adjustments, altering Camello’s movement on the pitch. The forward also highlighted the strong connection between Rayo Vallecano and its neighbourhood, describing the club as an integral part of the community rather than just based there. This unique environment, he suggested, helps keep players grounded.
The club recently faced challenges with its home ground, the Estadio de Vallecas, being declared unsafe. This forced a temporary relocation for home matches, which supporters boycotted. Rayo Vallecano was scheduled to return to Vallecas on Saturday 10 October.
Despite this new level of attention, Camello maintains he sees himself as a normal person from a humble team. He stressed that football has brought him far more positive experiences than difficult ones, and rediscovering this perspective – rather than treating each match as a test of his worth – has been key to his current success.