Sevilla’s Defensive Struggles Continue Amid Injury Woes

The Sevilla defensive line is facing unprecedented scrutiny. Currently, the team holds the unfortunate distinction of having conceded the most goals in LaLiga, totaling 37, and they have yet to find a viable solution to this issue. Coach Matías Almeyda has experimented with various formations, fielding as many as nine different central defenders in an attempt to stabilize the backline.

However, the club has not made any reinforcements in defense beyond the replacement of Ramón Martínez with Federico Gattoni. Factors contributing to this situation include limited financial resources and an excess of players in that position, even in light of Marcao’s severe injury, who had been a significant contributor prior to his setback.

Antonio Cordón stated, “One of our goals is to recover the injured players. We have 48 points left, and we need them available as they are crucial for our defensive line,” referencing players like César Azpilicueta and Tanguy Nianzou. While Azpilicueta was expected to be a supplementary player, he has ended up playing far more than anticipated, suffering from veteran-related injuries that have sidelined him for twelve matches. In contrast, Nianzou has struggled with recurring injuries since his arrival.

After a nine-month absence, Nianzou sustained another muscle injury in his right thigh last summer. Since then, his physical issues have kept him from participating in eighteen matches; this season, he has only played seven, yielding two victories, two draws, and three losses, with limited contributions in games against Villarreal and Elche.

Cordón remarked, “No one doubts his potential in Europe; everyone discusses the player who was supposed to be significant and valuable. Injuries alter the trajectory, but he is the first to want to be fit. He might be called up this Saturday, and we hope this will be the turning point because we need him.” The Sevilla management believes he is their best defender, yet his availability has been scarce, with a contract running until June 2027. Lacking options, the club can only cling to hope.

A significant portion of Sevilla’s fan base has criticized Nianzou for refusing to reduce his salary to support the club, as some of his teammates have done. Cordón defended Nianzou’s position, stating, “Everyone manages their finances as they see fit. Contracts are signed to be honored; no one is forcing you into a decision, and one must be consistent in their actions.” Since joining Sevilla in the summer of 2022, the defender has missed a total of 113 official matches, with 82 of those due to physical ailments.