Almeyda calls for Sevilla rebellion after disappointing showing
Sevilla's gaffer demands more fight from his squad ahead of Celta clash, with the Argentine boss addressing form issues and squad availability.
Sevilla manager Matías Almeyda wants his team to show their rebellious side when they face Celta Vigo, as the Andalusian outfit look to bounce back from their previous performance.
Fighting spirit needed
The Argentine boss didn’t mince his words in Sunday’s presser at the Jesús Navas stadium, making it crystal clear what he expects from his players ahead of Monday night’s clash with Celta Vigo at the Ramón Sánchez-Pizjuán.
“We need to show rebellion after the last match,” Almeyda insisted, calling for a response from his squad who sit in a crowded mid-table position where just a handful of points separate numerous teams.
The gaffer’s been in a right two and eight about his side’s inconsistency, though he maintains they’ve competed well in most fixtures despite results not always reflecting performances.
Injury concerns and squad updates
Sevilla face some selection headaches ahead of the Celta clash:
- Alexis suffered a hip knock in training but remains in the squad despite discomfort
- Rubén Vargas returns to the matchday squad after a period on the sidelines
- Alfon misses out in the attacking department
- Akor Adams continues his AFCON adventure, with Almeyda praising his development
First half of season assessment
Almeyda offered a measured take on Sevilla’s campaign thus far, suggesting they could’ve nicked a few more points along the way.
“We could have had more points. Perhaps we missed out on two or three draws, and three more points in this tournament means a lot,” he reflected.
The boss acknowledged the team’s up-and-down nature but stressed that many clubs find themselves in similar positions, with little separating teams in what’s proving to be a tightly contested La Liga season.
Fan frustrations understood
With the Sevilla faithful expressing their discontent after recent performances, Almeyda showed empathy while emphasizing their importance:
“The fans pay, they’re free to express themselves. But we have intelligent supporters and when they’re behind us, we have an extra player. They’re fundamental to this process because we all want to win.”
Monday night’s 9pm kickoff against Celta represents a chance for Sevilla to get back on track, though Almeyda noted the challenging timing for supporters with families.
Market realities
When quizzed on potential January business, Almeyda acknowledged the club’s financial situation without revealing specifics, noting that selling might be necessary before reinforcements arrive – a situation being managed by the president and sporting director.