Michel Calls for More Cutting Edge as Toothless Girona Fall to Atlético
Girona boss Michel admits his side lacked the quality to hurt Atlético Madrid, highlighting defensive frailties after conceding three more goals at Montilivi.
Michel Calls for More Cutting Edge as Toothless Girona Fall to Atlético
Girona manager Michel has pinpointed a lack of attacking creativity and defensive solidity as key factors in his side’s defeat to Atlético Madrid at Montilivi, with the Catalans now having shipped a worrying 33 goals in the first half of the season.
Frustration in Both Boxes
The Vallecas-born coach was brutally honest in his assessment, acknowledging that while his team competed well in midfield areas, they came up short where it really matters - in both penalty boxes.
“Between the areas, the feeling is good. Inside them, it’s poor,” Michel explained after watching his side create just two clear chances that were expertly saved by Jan Oblak.
Atlético physically dominated the Catalan outfit, with Michel admitting the visitors had the upper hand in duels across the pitch. The lack of robustness has become a recurring theme for Girona this season.
Fan Frustration Growing
There were audible whistles from the Montilivi faithful during the match, with supporters growing restless at the team’s lack of forward momentum. Michel was quick to defend his players, pointing out the difficulty in breaking down Diego Simeone’s well-drilled defensive unit.
However, he also made a plea to fans for support during what promises to be a challenging start to 2026, with the club firmly entrenched in a relegation battle:
“I don’t like that people don’t understand we’re suffering. We need them next year to get out of this situation.”
Reinforcements Required
While stopping short of throwing his players under the bus, Michel made it crystal clear that January reinforcements are needed if Girona are to avoid the drop. The manager highlighted a lack of physicality and an inability to win individual duels as areas requiring urgent attention.
The absence of key creator Ounahi was particularly felt, with Michel comparing his importance to that of Mbappé at Real Madrid - a proper Bobby Dazzler in midfield that they sorely missed.
Looking Ahead
Despite the doom and gloom, there are some positives on the horizon:
- Several injured players including David López, Abel Ruiz and Krapyvtsov are nearing returns
- Michel believes the squad has good human qualities and a positive daily work ethic
- The manager sees competitive performances in most matches since the opening five fixtures
With the first half of the season now complete, Michel is calling for his squad to disconnect briefly before returning with renewed energy for what will be a crucial fight for survival in the coming months.
“We need to disconnect and recharge our batteries to come back with the feeling that together we can fight to get out of this situation,” he concluded.