Giráldez reflects on whirlwind two years at Celta ahead of Sevilla return
Celta Vigo manager Claudio Giráldez discusses his journey since his debut at Sánchez-Pizjuán, squad changes, and the club's positive trajectory in La Liga.
Celta Vigo boss Claudio Giráldez returns to the scene of his managerial debut with a touch of nostalgia and a whole lot of progress in his back pocket.
It’s been 22 months since Giráldez first took charge at the Sánchez-Pizjuán, and even he admits the success that’s followed wasn’t on the cards. “It was difficult to imagine everything would go as well as it did in these two years,” the gaffer reflected ahead of Monday’s clash with Sevilla.
From debut to development
Giráldez has transformed from rookie to respected manager in the blink of an eye. The Galician outfit currently sit seventh in the table - not too shabby for a club that’s often found themselves in a relegation dogfight in recent seasons.
While maintaining the same core philosophy, Giráldez insists he’s constantly evolving: “I’m the same person, the same type of coach, looking to evolve, grow, improve - it’s what I’ve been trying to do my whole life.”
Sevilla showdown
The manager isn’t expecting any favours from a wounded Sevilla side smarting from recent disappointments:
- He anticipates an “injured rival” following their last home match
- Highlighted their “very high level both individually and collectively”
- Described them as “very physical… with great capacity to press high”
Transfer movements
The January window has already seen movement at Balaídos, with Damián Rodríguez departing on loan. Giráldez spoke warmly about a player he’s coached longer than anyone else in the current squad, but was adamant the loan move was “best for all parties.”
Goalkeeper Marc Vidal could be the next out the door, with Giráldez confirming: “He’s one of the players who has some option to leave.” The manager appeared unfazed by this possibility, noting they have “resources within the reserve team” if necessary.
Season objectives
While Celta’s form has been impressive, Giráldez remains grounded about their priorities. The primary objective - securing their top-flight status - is looking increasingly secure.
“The first half of the season, in terms of points, has been good,” he noted, while emphasizing there’s still “many things to improve” and “margin” to grow further.
As they head back to where it all began for Giráldez, Celta have the chance to finish the first half of the season on an absolute bobby dazzler of a high note.