"We have lost our strength and our way of playing," he stated.

"Things are not working and we have not reached our level," added the Brazilian ace.

"Our opponents' belief grows and we are not successful as respect for us has gone."

Sevilla were beaten at home by Deportivo La Coruna 1-0 to concede their fifth defeat in the past six matches.

The Palanganas, who registered a treble last season with their UEFA Cup, Spanish Super Cup and Spanish Cup triumphs, are in the 15th place of La Primera Liga table with only six points in 6 games.

"This situation is a surprise for us. Before we have enjoyed good times and now we are going through a bad moment."