Previous attempts in 2020 and 2021 fell short. With the new year, optimism abounds. The year’s early hours brought confirmation that Huesca’s match (6:15 pm, Movistar LaLiga) would be without Cristhian Stuani and Arnau Martínez. This absence of key players, following a period of adversity for Girona, is a setback. Míchel Sánchez will also be without Jordi Calavera. The trio are reportedly sidelined due to COVID-19, though the club hasn’t issued an official statement. Pablo Moreno, Ureña, Sarmiento, and Terrats are also absent from the squad, which includes six youth players. Borja García, however, is included, a player expected to be instrumental for Girona in the second half of the season.
Míchel Sánchez, acknowledging the widespread impact of the recent illness, stated that the team wouldn’t use COVID-19 as an excuse for performance. He will not offer justifications, focusing instead on the team’s clear progression. The team needs to find a replacement for Valery on the right flank, decide who will play left-back (Jairo or Juncà) and cope with the absence of their star striker, Cristhian Stuani. Nahuel Bustos, who began strongly, will step in. Sports director Quique Cárcel will evaluate potential reinforcements to bolster the team’s promotion bid. However, Michel underscores the squad’s strength: “Girona’s foundation lies within the existing team; any additions will enhance our options, but we already possess a strong and resilient core.”
Supportive Fan Actions Boost Club Morale
Despite restrictions, Huesca, in a commendable act, has allowed fans who purchased tickets to attend the game. Before the alert, 189 tickets were sold to Girona supporters. COVID-19 also affects Huesca, with several players potentially unavailable, including Andrei Ratiu, Cristian Salvador, Jaime Seoane, Joaquín Muñoz, Escriche, and Ferreiro.
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