Sevilla FC fields 11 youth players in friendly vs Córdoba CF Sevilla FC will face Córdoba CF in the IV Puertas de Córdoba Trophy with a starting lineup made up entirely of academy players. Manager Luis García Plaza has chosen to give minutes to the youth team in this preseason friendly. League standing (final 2025 table -- new season not yet under way): 13th in La Liga, 43 pts, 12W-7D-19L from 38 games, recent form LLWWW. ## Why is García Plaza betting on youth players? The Madrid-born coach has decided to rotate the squad after the first two preseason friendlies. With only nine first-team players available, García Plaza has given the youngsters a chance to gain experience. The starting XI features Alberto Flores; Jorge Moreno, Mario Díaz, Iker Muñoz, Sergio Martínez; Manu Bueno, Nico Guillén; Jesuly, Jesús Cruz, Manuel Ángel; Ibra Sow. ## Which first-team players are on the bench? On the bench will be players like Odysseas Vlachodimos, Carmona, Juan Iglesias, Sangante, Suazo, Agoumé, Guridi, Peque, Isaac, along with academy players Oso, Rafa Romero, Mario Díaz, Miguel Sierra and Lociga. The manager left Chidera Ejuke out, while Marcao, Alfon, Juanlu and Andrés Castrín are injured. Internationals Vargas and Sow are also absent, as are Joan Jordán, Rafa Mir, Fabio Cardoso, Pedrosa and Federico Gattoni. ## What’s next for Sevilla FC? After this match, Sevilla FC will prepare for another friendly next Sunday against Ceuta. García Plaza continues to work on getting his team ready for the new La Liga season, where the team aims to improve after finishing last season in 13th place with 43 points.