Michel sounds alarm bells: 'Without changes, 2025's mistakes will haunt us'
Girona boss Michel Sánchez calls for urgent improvements as his struggling side face Mallorca, with the manager highlighting defensive frailties and lack of cutting edge.
Girona manager Michel Sánchez has delivered a stark warning that his team must evolve quickly if they’re to avoid another disappointing year, as they prepare for a crucial clash with Mallorca.
The State of Play
The Vallecas-born tactician didn’t mince his words when assessing Girona’s current predicament. With the team struggling to hit the 20-point mark by the halfway stage of the season, Michel knows they’re in a proper dogfight.
“If we don’t change things, it will be impossible to improve on 2025,” Michel cautioned, highlighting the team’s defensive frailties and lack of cutting edge as primary concerns.
Injury Troubles Continue
Girona’s squad remains hampered by several key absences as they head to Son Moix:
- Long-term absentees Portu and Van de Beek remain sidelined
- Attackers Abel Ruiz and Stuani are unavailable
- Ounahi is away on international duty
There are some positives, however, with Krapyvtsov and David López returning to the squad, though the latter lacks match fitness.
Defensive Nightmare
Michel pulled no punches when discussing his team’s defensive issues:
“The data isn’t good, and that’s the reality. Especially in both boxes,” he admitted.
The gaffer pointed to problems in transition where they’ve leaked goals at an alarming rate. There’s also a concerning lack of energy and determination in the final third, leaving Girona toothless despite often reaching advanced positions.
Mallorca Threat
The Catalan side face a stern test against a Mallorca team who are proper diamond geezers at home. The islanders are unbeaten in seven at Son Moix, with their only home defeat coming against Barcelona on the opening day.
Michel is particularly wary of:
- Muriqi’s aerial presence
- Virgili’s one-on-one ability
- Quality crossing from Maffeo and Mojica
- The technical abilities of Darder and Samu Costa
Future Focus
Despite being in the final months of his contract, Michel insists his personal situation isn’t a distraction. “I’m very happy at Girona and my concern is the team,” he stated, acknowledging that results will determine whether he deserves to continue.
With the January window now open, reinforcements seem necessary, but the manager knows the winter market is notoriously difficult to navigate. His primary focus remains getting more from the current squad rather than pinning hopes on new arrivals.
The boss is crystal clear about what’s at stake: Premier Division survival. With Girona in what he describes as “a situation of extreme necessity,” the next two matches could be make or break for their season.