Zaragoza's defensive merry-go-round continues to spin out of control
Rubén Sellés has used six different centre-back pairings in recent matches as injuries, suspensions and form issues plague Real Zaragoza's backline.
Zaragoza’s defensive crisis deepens as manager Rubén Sellés struggles to find a reliable centre-back partnership amidst a chaotic rotation policy that’s leaving fans with the right hump.
Defensive Musical Chairs
If you thought your Sunday League team had selection problems, spare a thought for Zaragoza. Sellés has deployed a whopping six different centre-back pairings in recent fixtures, creating a proper dog’s dinner at the back that’s undermining any chance of defensive stability.
The revolving door has seen Radovanovic, Tachi, Insua, Gomes, Saidu and El Yamiq all taking turns in central defence, with none establishing themselves as the nailed-on partnership. It’s about as stable as a deck chair in a hurricane.
More Headaches Ahead
This weekend’s crucial clash against Andorra won’t bring any relief to Sellés’ selection headaches either. While Moroccan defender El Yamiq returns from suspension, the injury list continues to grow:
- Tachi and Saidu missed training with knee problems and await medical tests
- Radovanovic was also absent from training
- Only Insua and Gomes appear fully fit to partner El Yamiq
The gaffer now faces a classic choice between youth and experience if he pairs either Gomes or Insua with the returning El Yamiq.
A Glimmer of Hope Up Front
It’s not all doom and gloom for the Aragonese outfit. There’s a ray of sunshine in attack where Kenan Kodro has rejoined group training and might make the squad for Sunday’s match. After being sidelined with a muscle injury, the striker could get some minutes off the bench, though a starting role seems unlikely given his recent absence.
With their defensive foundations looking shakier than a novice on a tightrope, Zaragoza will need to find solutions quickly if they’re to steady the ship in Segunda División.