Almeyda Chews on Christmas Turrón Amid Growing Doubts at Sevilla
Despite steering Sevilla through troubled waters in their worst century showing, Matías Almeyda faces questions as the Andalusians struggle with consistency in La Liga.
Pelado’s Progress Meets Painful Reality
In what’s been Sevilla’s most dismal showing this century, Matías ‘El Pelado’ Almeyda has become something of a lifeboat for a club desperately trying to stay afloat. The Argentine gaffer knew exactly what he was signing up for when he took the reins – a proper hospital pass if ever there was one.
Antonio Cordón’s primary punt was bringing in Almeyda, though he’s had to make do with a threadbare transfer kitty and virtually no wiggle room. Despite these constraints, the boss has somehow squeezed decent performances from a limited squad that’s been constantly hampered by fitness issues.
Finding Identity in the Chaos
Almeyda’s primary mission has been restoring some pride and competitive character to a Sevilla side that’s looked lost at sea. In just a few months, he’s stamped his identity on the team and, with proper leaders in short supply, has become the club’s voice – winning over much of the fanbase with his straight-talking approach.
He’s leaned on veterans like Alexis and Azpilicueta while showing proper bottle in backing youngsters when needed. As one pundit put it, “it’s difficult to do more with the resources at his disposal.”
The Numbers Tell a Story
The current state of play doesn’t make for pretty reading:
- Sevilla sit on just 20 points – two fewer than at this stage last season
- This represents their fourth-worst points tally this century after 17 matchdays
- They’ve suffered 9 defeats already – more than any other season at this point
When Almeyda finally had his signings available, Sevilla enjoyed their best month of 2025 (4 wins and 1 draw from 6 games), culminating in that shock thrashing of Barcelona. But since then, they’ve hit a rough patch that’s brought them back down to earth, with the painful derby defeat setting alarm bells ringing.
Tactical Tweaks Show Promise
Credit where it’s due, the gaffer has shown tactical flexibility by changing both formation and approach. By beefing up the defence and making the most of his strongest department – the midfield (apart from the goalkeeper) – he’s found more stability and solidity.
The club hierarchy reportedly maintains “absolute confidence” in Almeyda. If there’s one thing they’re clear about, it’s avoiding the mistakes of the recent past that led to seven managerial changes in just three years. The united dressing room and decent showings against Barcelona and Real Madrid offer some hope.
However, January reinforcements will be absolutely crucial if Sevilla are to secure survival and perhaps aim a bit higher. For now, Almeyda continues his tightrope walk – showing promise but with plenty still to prove in the Sánchez-Pizjuán hot seat.