 He had a breakthrough season in 2009–10, ranking second in goals in the team; highlights included braces against RCD Mallorca (4–1), Athletic Bilbao (2–1, away) and one against former club Atlético (1–1), the goal that certified Sporting's permanence in the top flight for a further year, on 8 May 2010.Still under manager Manuel Preciado, de las Cuevas was again an undisputed starter for Gijón in the 2010–11 season.On 2 April 2011, he scored the only goal in a win against Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, ending José Mourinho's record of nine years and 150 matches unbeaten at home; he only missed one league match and added six goals, in another final escape from relegation.