Bryan Zaragoza left out of Celta squad amid Roma transfer rumours
The on-loan Bayern Munich winger misses trip to Getafe as late January transfer to Roma looms, with manager Giráldez addressing the situation in pre-match presser.
The Spanish attacker’s short stint at Celta could be coming to an abrupt end as transfer deadline day approaches.
Bryan Zaragoza has been dropped from Celta Vigo’s squad for their upcoming match against Getafe, fuelling speculation about a potential move to Roma before the transfer window slams shut. The 22-year-old winger, currently on loan from Bayern Munich with a purchase option, has suddenly found himself at the center of late January transfer drama.
Manager’s comments
Celta boss Claudio Giráldez addressed the situation in his pre-match press conference, suggesting events have moved quickly:
“It’s all very recent, it’s an open process and we’ll see what happens,” Giráldez explained, before adding that the situation caught everyone off guard - “even for him [Zaragoza].”
The manager indicated his preference would be for the player to stay but acknowledged the realities of the football business. According to Giráldez, Zaragoza has been completely honest in their discussions about the potential move.
Impact at Celta
Despite showing flashes of quality, Zaragoza’s time at Celta has been characterized by inconsistent performances:
- 26 appearances across all competitions
- 1,420 minutes played
- 2 goals scored
- 4 assists provided
These aren’t terrible numbers, but perhaps not what was expected from a player Bayern Munich splashed the cash on before loaning him to Celta.
Squad changes
While Zaragoza heads for the exit door, there’s positive news elsewhere in the squad. Young talent Fer López receives his first La Liga call-up following an impressive cameo in Belgrade where he scored a cracking goal. Talk about timing - his potential league debut would come against Getafe, the same opponent he faced in his last domestic appearance back in May.
The gaffer’s also welcomed back several key players:
- Williot Swedberg and Hugo Sotelo return from suspension
- Manu Fernández has recovered from a knock
- Starfelt is back after missing European action with a stomach bug
- Aidoo, not registered for Europe, is available for league duty
On the other hand, Hugo Burcio drops back to the reserves, while Cervi is left out through the manager’s choice and Ristic stays in Vigo with flu.
All eyes now turn to whether Zaragoza’s Italian job will materialize before the window closes. Bit of a liberty if you ask me - the lad’s barely unpacked his suitcase in Vigo!