Chaira reveals how Oviedo's Christmas break was 'just what the doctor ordered'
Ilyas Chaira discusses how Real Oviedo's squad has recharged during the festive period and quickly adapted to new boss Guillermo Almada's high-intensity approach.
Ilyas Chaira has opened up about how Real Oviedo’s Christmas break came at the perfect time for a squad needing to reset after a turbulent end to 2024.
Festive recharge for Oviedo
The attacking midfielder spoke candidly about how the holiday period provided a much-needed mental refresh for the team amid recent changes and external noise surrounding the club.
“I’ve been able to disconnect a bit and I think the group has too,” Chaira explained, clearly feeling the squad has benefitted from some time away from the training ground.
The break seems to have done wonders for team morale, with players returning to Asturias with batteries fully charged and ready to attack the second half of the season with renewed vigour.
Quick adaptation to Almada’s methods
What’s particularly encouraging for Oviedo fans is how swiftly the squad appears to have embraced new manager Guillermo Almada’s tactical approach. The Uruguayan tactician has wasted no time implementing his football philosophy.
Chaira highlighted their recent friendly against Celta Vigo as evidence of this rapid adjustment, noting the team has quickly grasped Almada’s core principles:
- High pressing up the pitch
- Maximum intensity at all times
- Immediate counter-pressing after losing possession
“Above all, he tells us that intensity is the most important thing,” Chaira revealed about Almada’s primary focus in training sessions.
New faces and future fixtures
The squad is also working to integrate new signing Nico Fonseca, with Chaira emphasizing the importance of making the newcomer feel welcome and comfortable in his new surroundings.
Looking ahead, Oviedo face a trip to Mendizorroza to take on Alavés in their first competitive fixture of 2025. While maintaining their one-game-at-a-time approach, Chaira acknowledged the importance of starting the new year positively.
The attacker also interpreted Almada’s comments about lacking offensive output as a call for more aggression in the final third. “I think he’s referring to attacking more, having more attacking volume,” Chaira explained, connecting this to their high-pressing strategy designed to win the ball in dangerous areas.
With renewed energy and a clear tactical direction, the Carbayones look ready to hit the ground running in January.