Bordalás Brushes Off Palace Links as Copa Challenge Looms
Getafe boss José Bordalás remains tight-lipped about Crystal Palace interest ahead of tricky Copa del Rey tie against Burgos, amid mounting injury concerns.
Bordalás Keeps His Cards Close to His Chest on Premier League Interest
Getafe manager José Bordalás has played down rumours linking him with a potential move to Crystal Palace, insisting his focus remains firmly on his current club as they prepare for Copa del Rey action.
When quizzed about reported interest from south London, the Spanish tactician was having none of it: “I’m focused on my club, which is Getafe.” Straight to the point, that’s our José.
Copa Challenges Ahead
The Azulones face a tricky away tie against second-tier Burgos in the round of 32, and Bordalás is clearly not taking anything for granted after several top-flight clubs have already taken a tumble in this season’s competition.
“Tomorrow we have a match of maximum difficulty,” Bordalás warned in his pre-match presser. “The Copa doesn’t give you any gifts.”
He’s not wrong there – Mallorca became the latest Primera División side to get their marching orders yesterday, and Getafe themselves have painful memories after their shock exit to minnows Navalcarnero in a previous campaign.
Injury Crisis Brewing
Bordalás faces significant selection headaches with several key players unavailable:
- Coba da Costa is a late withdrawal despite hopes he might feature
- Abu is another last-minute casualty for the cup clash
- Squad depth is being stretched to its limits
“We’ll complete the squad with youth players, though as you know we can only include four from the academy,” explained the gaffer, clearly feeling a bit Pete Tong with his options.
Opportunity Knocks
Despite the injury setbacks, Bordalás remains bullish about his team’s chances and the importance of cup progression:
“Every match is an opportunity. The team is doing well, aware of the importance of this clash. There are no more opportunities – it’s a one-off match.”
The Getafe boss also hinted that Luis Milla could return to the fold after missing their last outing, providing a potential boost to their midfield options.
With knockout football on the menu and a historic stadium awaiting, Bordalás is demanding his players deliver their “best version” against a Burgos side that has been particularly solid on home turf this season.
As for those Palace rumours? For now at least, Bordalás is keeping his focus on the bread and butter rather than potential Premier League riches.