Ejuke's form poses selection headache for Almeyda as crucial Alavés clash looms
Sevilla boss faces tactical dilemma with Ejuke pushing for a starting role while injuries mount ahead of vital relegation six-pointer against Alavés.
Sevilla’s gaffer Matías Almeyda finds himself at a tactical crossroads as his side prepares for a proper relegation dogfight against Alavés at the Sánchez-Pizjuán this Saturday.
Must-win territory
After scraping a draw against Girona in what was a heart-stopping finish following an absolute shocker of a first half, Sevilla know they need maximum points against direct rivals like Alavés if they’re to climb out of the brown stuff. It’s a massive six-pointer before their fixture list turns properly nasty.
The Andalusians will face the same Alavés side that knocked them out of the Copa del Rey earlier this season, adding extra spice to an already crucial encounter.
The Ejuke conundrum
Chidera Ejuke has given Almeyda a right old headache. The Nigerian winger hasn’t started a match since returning from AFCON duties, but his impact off the bench has been nothing short of transformative. Every time he’s stepped onto the pitch, he’s given Sevilla a different dimension going forward.
Last Sunday against Míchel’s Girona, Almeyda abandoned his trademark three-at-the-back system at half-time after Sevilla conceded within two minutes and looked all at sea. Switching to a 4-4-2 with Oso on the left and Ejuke on the right completely changed the complexion of the game, with Sevilla suddenly looking dangerous in attack.
Injury troubles
The selection picture has been complicated by Oso’s injury, which will keep him sidelined for 4-5 weeks. This opens the door for Ejuke to potentially start on the left wing – a position he’s familiar with from his time under García Pimienta and earlier in Almeyda’s tenure before Lukebakio’s departure.
Azpilicueta and Nianzou returned to action against Girona, while Gudelj is back from suspension. Januzaj has also returned to training, offering another option on the right flank alongside Carmona and Juanlu.
However, the treatment room remains busy with Rubén Vargas, Castrín, and Marcao all unavailable alongside the newly-injured Oso.
The tactical shift
If Almeyda sticks with the 4-4-2 that salvaged a point against Girona, Ejuke seems the natural replacement for Oso on the left. The Nigerian’s direct running and ability to beat his man could be just what Sevilla need to unlock a stubborn Alavés defence.
The manager’s decision will likely come down to whether he trusts Ejuke from the start or prefers to use him as an impact sub when defenders have heavy legs. Either way, the Nigerian’s form suggests he’ll have a significant role to play in Sevilla’s battle against the drop.