Deportivo Alavés finds itself in a challenging position as it prepares for upcoming fixtures, grappling with a significant defensive injury crisis. The team, currently occupying a European spot in sixth position in La Liga, has seen its defensive depth tested, forcing manager Quique Sánchez Flores to make crucial adjustments to his backline. This comes at a time when Alavés has shown remarkable defensive improvement under Flores, becoming the least conceded team in the league [1].
Defensive Conundrum
The most pressing concern for Deportivo Alavés is the string of injuries impacting their central defense. Ville Koski has returned to Vitoria after suffering a right quadriceps injury while on international duty with Finland, rendering him out for the foreseeable future [2]. This blow is compounded by the long-term absences of Facundo Garcés and Mikel Rodríguez, both of whom have suffered anterior cruciate ligament tears and are out of contention [1]. These significant setbacks mean that Quique Sánchez Flores will have to recompose his central defense, a task made more difficult by the lack of established options. Nahuel Tenaglia is expected to step into a central defensive role, while Nicolas Valentini and Jonny Otto are also considered candidates to fill the void. There are also rumors that Protesoni could provide defensive cover if needed, and Yusi might be called up to complete the squad due to the extensive defensive absences [2].
Form and Offensive Strengths
Despite the defensive challenges, Deportivo Alavés has enjoyed a strong start to the season, currently sitting in sixth position in La Liga with 11 points from seven games. Their record stands at three wins, two draws, and two losses, with 11 goals scored and 6 conceded. A notable aspect of their performance has been their home form, with all their victories this season secured at Mendizorroza. This strong home advantage contrasts with their away form, which remains a challenge for the team [1]. On the offensive front, Lucas Boyé and Toni Martínez have been identified as key players, crucial to the team’s goal-scoring efforts [1]. Their ability to convert chances will be vital as the team navigates its defensive issues.
What it means
Deportivo Alavés’s current standing in sixth place with 11 points from seven matches places them firmly in a European qualification spot, a testament to their solid start to the season. Their form over the last five league games, with two wins, one draw, and two losses, indicates a period of mixed results, highlighted by a dominant 5-2 home victory against CA Osasuna but also a 0-1 home defeat to Valencia CF. The team’s strong home record, where all three of their wins have occurred, suggests that Mendizorroza is a fortress they rely on. However, their away form, including a 0-0 draw against Athletic Club and a 1-2 loss to Real Racing Club de Santander, points to an area for improvement. The upcoming fixture against Atlético on October 10th presents a significant challenge, especially given the current defensive crisis. Maintaining their European position will depend heavily on how Quique Sánchez Flores manages to reconfigure his defense and whether the key offensive players can continue to deliver.
