Camello credits mindset change after seven-goal start for Rayo Vallecano

Sergio Camello has already surpassed his previous best scoring total for a top-flight season, with seven goals in Rayo Vallecano's opening seven league games. In an interview published by the Guardian on Thursday, the forward attributed his improved form to a change in mindset as well as adjustments made by new coach Beñat San José.

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Camello's previous season totals in Spain's top division were five, three and three goals, according to the report. At the time of publication, Barcelona's Raphinha was the only player across Europe's five leading leagues to have scored more this campaign. Camello said his teammates had begun referring to him by the name of the Pichichi scoring award as they enjoyed his productive start.

San José has altered the striker's movement, but Camello placed particular emphasis on feeling freer on the pitch. He described conversations with friends and his twin brother, Gonzalo, as important in helping him rediscover his enjoyment of football. He also said he had discussed in therapy the idea of reconnecting with the enthusiasm that first drew him to the sport, before it became his profession.

The scoring run has come during a disrupted period for Rayo's home fixtures. The Guardian reported that the club had been playing in Leganés after Madrid's council declared the Estadio de Vallecas unsafe. Supporters boycotted those relocated home games. Camello stressed the importance of the club's connection with its neighbourhood, describing relationships between players and local residents that extend beyond matches and into everyday life.

Away from football, Camello has joined Action for Music, a charity offering children in lower-income neighbourhoods access to music education. He said its pupils receive four hours of lessons each week, with instruments, teachers and space provided free of charge. The organisation has schools in Tetuán and Carabanchel, and Camello has taken part in a session with the children.

The forward said he wants to establish a school in Vallecas next year, with rock music central to his approach. That remains an ambition rather than an announced opening. He presented the project as a way to repay the neighbourhood for its support, linking his own renewed confidence in football with the opportunities he hopes music could offer children.