The Current Challenges Faced by José Ángel Carmona and Sevilla

omidbasir- José Ángel Carmona epitomizes the current performance level of Sevilla FC. The academy graduate emerged as one of the few bright spots for the team last season, solidifying his role in LaLiga by leading the interceptions chart. Following a hesitant summer during which he turned down several offers, he began the current campaign as a starter. His early season performances were particularly noteworthy, coinciding with a peak in the team’s overall form.

However, Carmona has recently encountered a dip in form, presenting a dilemma for coach Matías Almeyda. “He gives everything and puts his soul into the game, but sometimes that commitment can be excessive,” Almeyda remarked regarding Carmona ahead of the match against Girona. After a dismal first half from the entire team, Carmona was one of the players singled out for criticism and was substituted at halftime. In the match against Alavés, he started on the bench—a scenario that had only previously occurred during the first half of the season against Elche and Villarreal. In that game against Alavés, Almeyda reinforced the right flank with César Azpilicueta and Juanlu Sánchez, but the latter’s expulsion disrupted the strategy.

With Juanlu unavailable for the upcoming match against Getafe, and Azpilicueta training separately due to a concussion from the Alavés game, questions now surround Carmona, who is on the brink of suspension ahead of the upcoming Seville derby. While his return to the starting lineup could necessitate a tactical shift, his versatility remains an asset for a Sevilla side that displayed improved defensive organization in their last outing.

Carmona has been the most utilized player by Almeyda this season, having participated in 25 matches and clocking up 1,956 minutes, with 21 of those as a starter. He has also contributed one goal and three assists, all of which were recorded during September and October. Nonetheless, he has received the highest number of yellow cards in the league, totaling nine, which led to him serving a suspension in the match against Espanyol.