Sevilla welcome back Vargas and Nianzou for Celta clash as squad issues mount
Almeyda's squad gets timely boost with returning players ahead of Monday night's La Liga fixture, though question marks remain over Alexis Sánchez's fitness.
Sevilla’s injury-hit squad receives some welcome reinforcements as they prepare to host Celta Vigo in Monday night’s La Liga fixture at the Sánchez-Pizjuán.
Squad boost
Matías Almeyda has named a 22-man squad for Monday’s clash (21:00 local time) against Celta Vigo, with the return of Rubén Vargas and Tanguy Nianzou providing a much-needed boost to the Andalusian side. Academy product Miguel Sierra also makes the cut as Sevilla look to finish the first half of the league campaign on a high.
The fixture represents the final match of La Liga’s matchday 19, marking the halfway point of the season - a proper milestone for Almeyda’s men who’ve had their fair share of ups and downs this term.
Notable absentees
Sevilla’s squad continues to be stretched thin with several key absences:
- Ramón Martínez drops out after confirming his move to Real Valladolid
- César Azpilicueta, Suazo and Alfon remain sidelined through injury
- Marcao serves the second match of his suspension
- Nigerian internationals Akor Adams and Ejuke are away on international duty
Talk about being down to the bare bones! The gaffer’s having to get creative with his team selection.
Alexis uncertainty
The biggest question mark hangs over the availability of Alexis Sánchez for the starting lineup. The Chilean star picked up a knock during training that has left his participation in doubt.
Almeyda explained the situation: “He received a blow to his hip during contact with a teammate in training.” The coach described it as one of those painful bone bruises that can temporarily affect muscle function, though he was quick to emphasize it’s nothing serious.
The full squad list includes: Odysseas, Nyland, Alberto Flores, Carmona, Juanlu, Kike Salas, Nianzou, Cardoso, Castrín, Oso, Mendy, Agoumé, Sow, Gudelj, Jordán, Manu Bueno, Januzaj, Miguel Sierra, Alexis, Peque, Vargas and Isaac.
With the returning players, Sevilla will hope to put in a solid performance against a Celta side that’s had its own struggles this season. Monday night under the lights at the Pizjuán should be a proper Bobby Dazzler!