Arrasate admits Mallorca's first half of season has been 'poor' as pressure mounts
Mallorca boss takes responsibility after defeat to Levante leaves them just one point above relegation zone, with tough fixtures against Athletic and Atlético looming.
Jagoba Arrasate isn’t mincing his words as Mallorca’s troubles continue to pile up in the new year.
Tough start to 2026
Mallorca’s 2026 has begun with a proper mare, as they slumped to another defeat against Levante. Their game plan went straight out the window after just four minutes when De Frutos found the net, leaving Arrasate’s men hovering precariously close to the drop zone.
The Balearic side are now just one point above Valencia in the relegation places, with some proper tests on the horizon - Athletic Club at home followed by a trip to Atlético Madrid. Not exactly what the doctor ordered when you’re desperate for points.
Manager taking responsibility
“The first half of the season is poor, we need to pick up many more points, and I’m the one who has to put this right,” admitted Arrasate after the match.
The gaffer’s frustration was clear as day, especially regarding a contentious penalty awarded to Levante for a challenge on De Frutos. While acknowledging there was contact, he suggested it was too soft to warrant a spot-kick, lamenting how modern football has lost its romantic edge.
Tactical gamble backfires
Arrasate rolled the dice with his starting eleven, making several changes in an attempt to counter Levante’s strengths - particularly the height of their full-backs. But with the early goal, his tactical masterplan went Pete Tong before it had a chance to develop.
The Muriqi conundrum
One of the most baffling aspects of Mallorca’s struggles is their inability to capitalize on Vedat Muriqi’s goalscoring form. The striker has netted 11 times this season, yet the team continues to struggle.
“We can’t have Muriqi scoring 11 goals and not make the most of it,” Arrasate pointed out. “We need to be more solid and stay focused.”
Looking ahead
Despite the mounting pressure, Arrasate maintains he has the backing of the club and is already focusing on their next challenge against Athletic Club.
“I understand everything and that the situation isn’t good,” he said, “but I’m already thinking about tomorrow and the plan we’re going to implement against Athletic.”
With Mallorca’s form going south faster than birds in winter, Arrasate needs to find solutions quickly before their position becomes even more precarious.