Sevilla FC face RCD Espanyol this Saturday at 21:00 at the RCDE Stadium, a key match for both in the sixth round of LaLiga. Luis García Plaza's team arrives with six points from their league start, having won two and lost one, placing them eighth in the standings.
The Andalusian side wants to build on the closure of the transfer window, which brought Felix Correia, Lucas Stassin and Youssouf Fofana on the final day, to secure three points and start September strongly. As reported by Mundo Deportivo, the manager confirmed the three new players will travel to Barcelona, though their involvement is uncertain. "We will see if any can play some minutes," stated García Plaza, who noted that "the one with the most match rhythm is Correia, who started for Lille in the first two matchdays in France."
How is Sevilla approaching the match?
The Sevilla squad showed deficiencies in their last outing, a home defeat to Atlético Madrid that halted their positive momentum. However, the team left a good impression in the previous match against Real Madrid, despite the loss, and aims to repeat that solidity in Cornellà. With six goals scored and five conceded this season, the goal difference is positive but the defence must tighten up.
The confirmed absence of Rubén Vargas, listed on the injuries page, forces adjustments. The arrival of the three last-minute reinforcements has generated optimism among the fans, though their adaptation will be gradual. The work of Monchi and Manolo in the market has been deemed satisfactory within the club.
What are Espanyol's new developments?
The home team is desperate to avoid a third consecutive defeat, after losing to Real Sociedad last time out. Their main attraction is winger Bryan Zaragoza, the star summer signing from Málaga, who could make his debut against Sevilla. His arrival increases competition in the wide positions.
In defence, Uruguayan centre-back Lele Cabrera will make his LaLiga 26/27 debut after serving a suspension dating back to March. He was a regular for Manolo last season. Alongside him, Unai Núñez, Drkusic and Riedel will compete for the other centre-back spot, with the former most likely to start. In midfield, Moscardo performed well at Anoeta and could feature more.
What is the season's context?
Sevilla start with an advantage in the table but are still three points behind leaders Barcelona. Every match is vital to avoid falling away from the European places. Their next fixture on the schedule is at home against Valencia, currently 18th, on September 11.
For Espanyol, this clash is almost an early final. Their manager, Manolo, rarely changes a working lineup, so Edu Expósito, Urko, Cala, Javi Hernández and Roberto, their top scorer, are expected to start. The duel between two historic clubs promises excitement at the always challenging RCDE Stadium. Sevilla are relying on their new signings to take a step forward in the fight for European qualification.
