The former Manchester United winger addressed Real Betis media after the 2-1 victory at La Cartuja that confirmed fifth place and a return to Europe's elite competition.
He described the emotional intensity of the break, when the news arrived that Celta Vigo had lost to Levante.
"When I saw that Celta had lost their match, I stayed alone for a moment talking to myself, talking to God. I said to myself that I would not leave here without the victory. Thanks to God we got the three points, these points that take us to the Champions League. After so many years we're back in the Champions and being part of this team makes me feel very happy."
He was clear about how consuming the objective had become for the entire squad.
"The objective for all of us was that. We were already dreaming about it and it depended on us. No matter whether Celta won or lost, it depended on us.
"We achieved it. I feel very happy to be part of this team, of this club that I love very much. That's why I didn't stop running for a minute — because I knew we needed to win. Being part of this team is a pride for me."
He kept his message simple when asked how the team felt.
"First, very happy for the victory. We knew the importance of this match, of winning at home. The Celta had lost. The match depended on us to get into the Champions. This team deserves it so much, the supporters deserve it so much, the people, all the employees here deserve it so much. Today, enjoy it enormously — because we deserve it."