Almada's Blue Revolution: Can New Oviedo Boss Upset High-Flying Celta?
Guillermo Almada makes his Oviedo debut against a Celta side fresh from shocking Real Madrid at the Bernabéu, as the relegation-threatened hosts seek a new manager bounce.
Almada’s Blue Revolution: Can New Oviedo Boss Upset High-Flying Celta?
Oviedo’s third manager of a disastrous campaign, Uruguayan Guillermo Almada, faces a baptism of fire as his relegation-threatened side hosts a Celta Vigo team still buzzing from their stunning triumph at the Bernabéu.
Oviedo: Desperate for a Spark
There’s nothing like a new gaffer to shake things up, and Oviedo are banking on that old football adage: new manager, guaranteed victory. The hosts are in dire straits this season, and Almada seems keen to shuffle the pack for his debut in the dugout.
The return of two key players could prove crucial:
- Fede Viñas returns from suspension to lead the line
- Spanish legend Santi Cazorla is back in the squad - his minutes and the crowd’s reaction could be decisive factors
The Uruguayan striker Viñas carries a heavy burden, having to end a six-match goalless drought for a side desperate for points. Almada will be hoping his compatriot can deliver the goods.
Celta: From Madrid Glory to Asturian Challenge
The visitors arrive in a right two and eight (state) after their Copa del Rey elimination, but that Bernabéu triumph remains a proper statement of their quality. Claudio Giráldez’s men are hovering near the European places and won’t want to lose momentum.
Celta face some selection headaches, though:
- Borja Iglesias misses out after a back injury picked up in cup action
- Pablo Durán and Carlos Domínguez remain sidelined
- Hugo Sotelo and Ristic stayed in Vigo, not quite match-ready
With their striking options limited, Jutglà will be tasked with capitalizing on whatever chances come Celta’s way at the Carlos Tartiere.
The Travelling Support
Despite the long coach journey to Asturias, approximately a thousand Celta supporters are making the trip north to back their team. That away end could make all the difference in what promises to be a proper atmosphere.
Oviedo need points desperately, but Celta’s quality and confidence after toppling the champions makes this a fascinating encounter. Can Almada inspire an immediate turnaround, or will Celta’s European push continue at the expense of the struggling hosts?