Girona’s Sporting Director Reflects on Recent Transfer Market Activity

The sporting director of Girona, Quique Cárcel, assessed the recent transfer market, which concluded with three departures—Livakovic, Solís, and Asprilla—and three arrivals: Fran Beltrán, Claudio Echeverri, and Marc-André Ter Stegen, who suffered an injury after just two appearances and will not return to the club.

Cárcel acknowledged that additional signings were considered to address challenges in specific positions. However, budget constraints, salary limits, and the decision to play only once a week with versatile players ultimately led to the choice not to pursue further acquisitions.

He conceded that managing the goalkeeping situation has proven difficult for both the club and head coach Míchel, especially as the team grapples with relegation concerns while seeking consistency in performance.

Cárcel emphasized the club’s and his personal desire to extend Míchel’s contract, which expires on June 30. Both parties are satisfied with their relationship, and although the immediate focus is on achieving survival in the league, intentions for renewal are clear.

Regarding the transfer market, Cárcel stated, “This market began when the team was in a challenging position, and results have since improved. We needed to resolve the situations of players who were not featuring prominently, like Solís and Asprilla, as well as Livakovic, who wished to leave. These three departures were evident, and we recognized the need for alternatives. Echeverri was already on our radar from summer and could enhance our attacking options. We made a concerted effort to sign Fran Beltrán. Securing a goalkeeper like Ter Stegen represented a significant step forward. Given our schedule, I believe it’s crucial for all players to feel close to starting roles. Budget constraints limited our options further, but I am pleased with the current team dynamic despite a setback in Oviedo.”

Cárcel also expressed concern over the defensive situation, noting that the team has been among the most scored upon but has recently shown improved solidity. With only one left-back available, he mentioned alternative options, such as Arnau, Francés, and Blind, who could provide additional support in defense. The signing of Fran Beltrán necessitates adjustments, and although a forward was initially contemplated, Echeverri’s inclusion is seen as beneficial.

On Ter Stegen’s injury, he remarked, “The situation with Ter Stegen is unfortunate. After the injury to Juan Carlos and issues surrounding Livakovic, we initially had a well-covered goalkeeping position, only for Ter Stegen to get injured in his second match. We have confidence in Gazzaniga and Vlad, and we are assessing whether we can afford to bring in an unattached goalkeeper if necessary. If our reserve keeper were performing consistently, I would feel reassured, but as it stands, Aleksandar Andreev is not playing regularly. We are actively addressing this situation.”

Regarding Ter Stegen’s recovery, Cárcel clarified, “It has been reported that he is returning to Barcelona. We signed Ter Stegen on loan from Barcelona, but he is officially a Girona player. Our priority is to support his recovery in the best way possible. He has displayed excellent professional values in the short time he has been with us, and we are committed to helping him. His future aspirations have now been disrupted, and we must also ensure that Gazzaniga and Vlad are in peak condition.”

On the loans of Solís and Asprilla, Cárcel explained, “Birmingham has signed Solís with the intention of possibly making the deal permanent if he performs well. There is no set number of matches or obligation to buy. He is young and has struggled to gain regular playing time. Galatasaray has a significant purchase option for Asprilla as well. Both needed to leave to enhance their performance, and we hope this experience will benefit them.”

Addressing Míchel’s future, Cárcel affirmed, “Míchel is fully aware that both the club and I want him to renew. His focus is on navigating the day-to-day challenges and achieving our broader objectives. The beginning of the season was particularly challenging with player movements affecting stability. We have experienced difficult periods, but it is through unity and mutual support that we have emerged from those struggles. Girona wants Míchel to continue, and we know he is content here. In football, circumstances can change, but if he were to leave, I would support him wholeheartedly.”

Cárcel also noted that the transfer market was active, with some players nearing the end of their contracts. The goal is to negotiate renewals with players like Arnau and Tsygankov, although interest has not yet translated into formal offers to present to ownership. The priority remains on achieving survival in the league.

Regarding Livakovic, he stated, “His situation reflects the team’s rocky start, exacerbated by various injuries and external challenges. Our focus must remain on unity and not on external pressures. While Livakovic is now in our past, I will not hold any grudges against him. He arrived and showcased surprising qualities, even foregoing financial compensation from his previous club. Míchel managed him well amid performance pressures and did so with great humanity.”

Cárcel concluded by addressing the need for a generational transition within the squad, saying, “We have six months ahead of us and expect contributions from our veteran players. If they deliver, we are keen to renew their contracts. The coming months are crucial; their contributions to the club have been significant, and we will evaluate their performances accordingly.”

Finally, he highlighted the importance of the reserve team, stating, “The reserve side often goes unmentioned. While many call for new signings, we should consider why we have this structure. Over-signing can lead to congestion, and we have many talented players in the reserves capable of stepping up to the first team. The coaching staff has been effective in their management, allowing players to transition between teams and compete at a high level. I am very satisfied with their progress.”