Sevilla Prepares for Gran Derbi Amid Injury Concerns

In Sevilla, the Gran Derbi is a highly anticipated event. This Sunday, Sevilla will host Real Betis at the Ramón Sánchez-Pizjuán Stadium at 16:15. However, head coach Matías Almeyda will be without several key players due to injuries. Notably, Tanguy Nianzou is confirmed to be out with a hamstring injury, and Adnan Januzaj was substituted in the match against Espanyol due to discomfort in his left hamstring. His recent social media update suggests he might be sidelined for the remainder of the year.

Furthermore, the match against Espanyol brought concerning news for Sevilla as their star player, Rubén Vargas, sustained a muscle strain in the back of his thigh during the second half, preventing him from continuing the game. Vargas left the field limping, and pending further medical evaluations, his availability for the derby appears highly unlikely. “Both players experienced muscular discomfort,” Almeyda confirmed in a subsequent press conference.

On a positive note, Sevilla is optimistic about the return of two significant players to their lineup. After overcoming adductor issues, Isaac Romero rejoined team training on Friday, alongside Lucien Agoumé, Alexis Sánchez, and Fábio Cardoso. Notably, both Romero and Agoumé participated in minutes during their recent match in Barcelona, while Cardoso also traveled with the team.

The last player to exit the treatment room is César Azpilicueta, a crucial starter whenever fit. The Navarra native began light jogging on Sunday morning and is expected to return to full training this week, targeting the derby as his comeback date.