Sevilla compared to a 'kneeling elephant' by new sporting director

Speaking at his official presentation on Friday, the 61-year-old explained that he had long felt a "thorn in his side" after twice previously holding talks with Sevilla, and that he couldn't let a third opportunity pass. "I couldn't miss the chance again," he said.

Grateful for the warm welcome and the confidence shown by club president Jose Maria del Nido Carrasco and the board, Cordon said his initial impression of the club has been "very positive", describing Sevilla as "an institution with great potential" thanks to "the incredible human and professional quality of the people working here".

At the Ramon Sanchez-Pizjuan press room, Cordon elaborated on his striking metaphor, saying: "Sevilla are like an elephant that is kneeling, but can stand up again with everyone's help – and to push off powerfully with its back legs to support itself on all four."

He pointed out that, despite a lacklustre campaign last season, "the club's achievements and titles in this century are plain to see".

Cordon, who hails from Badajoz, outlined his main objective as building a competitive squad. "Our mission is to build a team – and that means bringing together all kinds of players: homegrown talent, because we have some very strong youngsters coming through, as has always been the case here; and others from different profiles," he explained. "There will be no difficulty in attracting players – everyone wants to come to Sevilla."