Arrasate shrugs off pressure as Mallorca prepare for Athletic challenge
Mallorca boss focuses on action over words ahead of crucial Athletic Club clash as he deals with defensive injuries and welcomes new signing Kalumba.
Mallorca manager Jagoba Arrasate is blocking out the noise and focusing solely on tomorrow’s crucial clash with Athletic Club, as he looks to turn around his side’s poor start to the new year.
Pressure? What pressure?
The gaffer couldn’t care less about being the least-watched team in the first half of La Liga or the growing doubts surrounding his position. Instead, he’s laser-focused on getting three points against a high-flying Athletic side currently in Champions League contention.
“It’s not time to talk, it’s time to act tomorrow at 16:15,” Arrasate stated firmly in one of his longest press conferences of the season, making it crystal clear that actions speak louder than words in this moment of difficulty.
Defensive headaches
Mallorca’s preparation hasn’t been helped by some key defensive absences:
- Maffeo is definitely out
- Captain Raíllo is highly doubtful despite his brave attempts to play
- Morlanes will also miss the fixture
Arrasate acknowledged these are significant losses but maintained it provides opportunities for squad players to step up. “Sometimes we focus too much on the starting lineup, but those who come off the bench are equally important,” he explained.
New blood
The club has officially announced French winger Justin Kalumba as their first winter reinforcement, signing until 2029. However, Arrasate was quick to temper expectations:
“Justin has barely touched professional football, doing so only sporadically. He’s more of a market opportunity with an eye on the future rather than immediate performance.”
When asked if Kalumba would be enough to strengthen the squad, Arrasate was diplomatic but clear: “The sporting director already knows what I want.”
The Athletic challenge
Arrasate is under no illusions about the difficulty of tomorrow’s task against an Athletic Club side pushing for Champions League qualification.
“Athletic are recognisable, always the same - they’ll come to press us and try to impose a high tempo,” he warned. “We’re talking about a Champions League-level team, and I’m very concerned about everything, especially their attacking players who are recovering now.”
Support from above
Sporting Director Pablo Ortells has publicly backed Arrasate, something the manager appreciates during this difficult period. “I’m with him every day and I appreciate Pablo’s support. That’s what I value from someone so close because nowadays the sporting director and manager have to live together.”
For Mallorca, currently the least-watched team in La Liga by television audience, the focus isn’t on entertainment but results. And for Arrasate, the path forward is crystal clear - unity and belief in their idea. No time for rabbit and pork, just time for action.