Sevilla FC Reinforces Its Commitment to Youth Development Amid Squad Challenges

omidbasir- In light of a depleted roster, the solution often lies within the youth academy. This resource has historically yielded significant benefits for Sevilla FC and has become essential in recent years. Players such as José Ángel Carmona, Juanlu Sánchez, Kike Salas, and Isaac Romero have gained prominence in the first team. This season, injuries and a lack of squad depth have necessitated an even greater reliance on youth, leading to notable appearances by players like Andrés Castrín, Oso, Manu Bueno, and Miguel Sierra.

With Nemanja Gudelj suspended due to accumulated yellow cards, Sevilla may field a defense consisting of several academy graduates, including Juanlu, Carmona, Castrín, and Kike Salas, alongside Gabriel Suazo. Additionally, it is likely that Isaac Romero will return to the starting lineup to partner with Akor Adams in attack. On the bench, Oso, Manu Bueno, and possibly Miguel Sierra will be waiting for their opportunity.

“The personality belongs to them; I try to convey that and lessen the pressure. They are giving their all, but they are playing during a challenging time. I believe they uplifted the crowd, who felt connected to them as they played with the passion of fans,” expressed Matías Almeyda following the recent victory against Athletic, where seven players with previous experience at Sevilla Atlético were on the field. The Argentine coach believes that “the most beautiful aspect of football is playing with a sense of belonging; that cannot be bought. It must be approached with calm, as they will contribute significantly to the club.”

Sevilla has revived a model that confidently leans on its academy. Players already assigned to the first team (Carmona, Juanlu, Kike Salas, and Isaac) are among the eleven with the most playing time so far this season. Meanwhile, Andrés Castrín, Oso, Manu Bueno, and Miguel Sierra have accumulated a total of 1,816 minutes, with their participation only increasing. Other players who have yet to debut but have been called up by Almeyda include Alberto Flores (12), Rafa Romero (2), Loren Luchino (1), Iker Muñoz (1), Edu Altozano (3), and Álex Costa (4).

The recent contract renewals for Edu Altozano and Nico Guillén, along with the refusal to release Iker Muñoz despite offers from second-division clubs, reflect Sevilla’s commitment to its youth system. This strategy is already beginning to bear fruit in the first team, indicating that the near future for the club in Nervión will heavily involve its academy.