Gattoni returns to Sevilla training as forgotten man seeks fresh start
Argentine defender Federico Gattoni rejoins Sevilla's first team training after loan spell at River Plate ends, sporting provisional number 25 shirt for Nervión outfit.
Sevilla’s first training session of 2024 featured an unexpected face as Argentine defender Federico Gattoni returned from his loan spell at River Plate.
Back in the fold
The Nervión club kicked off the new year at their José Ramón Cisneros Palacios training complex with preparations for Sunday’s La Liga clash against Levante, where they’ll be desperate to return to winning ways. But it was Gattoni’s surprise appearance that caught everyone’s attention.
The 26-year-old central defender, who signed for Sevilla in January 2023, has had a proper nomadic career since joining the Andalusians:
- Initially loaned back to his boyhood club San Lorenzo
- Then shipped off to Belgian side Anderlecht
- Most recently spent time with Argentine giants River Plate
Despite being on Sevilla’s books for a year, Gattoni has made just four official appearances in the famous red and white shirt - hardly enough time to get his boots dirty.
Provisional status
Gattoni has been assigned the number 25 shirt for now, but this appears to be a temporary measure while the club decides his future. Whether he’s part of manager Matías Almeyda’s plans or just passing through remains to be seen.
Team news
Sevilla’s training session saw several key players back in action:
- Peque, Azpilicueta and Nianzou all participated fully
However, Almeyda will have to make do without several squad members for Sunday’s match:
- Vargas is in the final phase of his recovery
- Suazo remains sidelined through injury
- Internationals Ejuke and Adams are away at the Africa Cup of Nations
- Marcao is suspended and unavailable for selection
The Rojiblancos will be looking to turn their fortunes around against Levante after a patchy run of form. With Gattoni now back in the building, perhaps the Argentine will get another crack at proving himself in Spanish football. Stranger things have happened in this game, my old china plate!