Sevilla FC are putting the finishing touches on their preparation to host Valencia CF this Wednesday at the Ramón Sánchez-Pizjuán. Luis García Plaza's squad held their final training session at the stadium with defender Mamadou Sangante suspended and winger Rubén Vargas injured.
Tuesday's session was about fine-tuning the last details ahead of a Valencia side arriving in a difficult moment. For Sevilla's hierarchy, this match is of most important importance within a frantic week that includes a trip to Riazor and a home game against FC Barcelona. The objective is to secure the first three points at home before that demanding cycle.
Who is ruled out for the match?
Mamadou Sangante will serve a suspension following his red card against Espanyol. The Senegalese centre-back, a key piece in defence, will make way for Marcao, who will be included in the matchday squad. Meanwhile, Rubén Vargas has not rejoined group training this week. The Swiss winger is dealing with knee discomfort and is following a conservative treatment plan, delaying his official debut this season after staying at the club.
The rest of the squad trained normally, showing good physical condition at the start of the league campaign. The team aims to maintain the positive run of results that has seen them take 7 points from a possible 9, thanks to two wins and a draw. You can check the full status of the squad on our dedicated page.
What role will Youssouf Fofana play?
One of the focal points in training was midfielder Youssouf Fofana. The Frenchman, who made his debut in the second half against Espanyol, received specific instructions from the coaching staff. His physical power is expected to add an extra dimension to the team's play in the centre of the park. Fofana still needs to fully adapt to Luis García Plaza's ideas, but his addition is seen as very valuable for rotation in a week with three matches.
The Madrid-born manager is expected to rotate the team to handle the fixture load, but without losing the identity that has brought good results. The squad, is in good spirits and confident. The upcoming fixtures schedule shows the demanding nature of the commitments ahead.
How is the team approaching this decisive period?
Sevilla face a definitive eight-day block before the international break. After Valencia, the team travels to La Coruña to face an in-form Deportivo and then hosts Barça. The intention is to accumulate points in this stretch to face potential tougher periods later with more cushion.
The message from the club is one of total support for the fans, seeking a full and committed Sánchez-Pizjuán from the first minute. The team currently holds a prominent position in the standings, which boosts dressing room morale. The match against Valencia CF is scheduled for Wednesday, September 11th at 21:00.
