Jacobo’s absence due to suspension in the next match against Castellón opens the door for many green and white players to struggle to find a place in the green and white attack and want to gain the trust of Iván Ania. The Madrilenian has been occupying the left wing in recent days before Adilson’s injury. Therefore, in front of Calderón there could be a free place. Like the midfielder, even if Théo Zidane is the Asturian coach’s favorite to play in this position.
Throughout the season, Iván Ania made many changes to his offensive front, but only in certain positions. The right winger and striker remained intact along with Carracedo and Antonio Casas. The left wing rotated over the days. First it was Adilson and now Jacobo, although he feels more comfortable in midfield. Here is the decision of Iván Ania who will have to choose between players like Ander Yoldi, Kuki Zalazar or Jude Soonsup-Bell to compensate for the loss of Jacobo. Without leaving aside the possible reappearance of Adilson after a month away from the playing fields.
One of the most likely candidates is Ander Yoldi. The Navarrese winger already started for Eldense on the last day since Jacobo was also suspended. He didn’t play much in Olot because he was expected to play in Almería. The match was suspended but the idea can be maintained and played from the start. Yoldi started the season very strong with two goals in his locker, the second top scorer on the team. However, his participation was reduced as the season progressed until he was relegated to a bench player, disruptive in the final minutes.
Another option that Iván Ania can handle is Kuki Zalazar. The Spaniard-Uruguayan suffered an injury that only allowed him to make his debut a few weeks ago, in the match against Granada in October 13. He still needs a few minutes but the match against Castellón would be a good opportunity. He could occupy the left wing as he did in certain matches last season or move towards midfield, if the coach decides to give him this role before Théo Zidane. Injuries are lurking in Cordoba, so the Asturian coach will decide on his starter based on the player’s feelings.
The riskiest option, although not crazy, is that of Jude Soonsup-Bell. Even though he has only played on the right wing replacing Carracedo so far, he has the versatility to play the three positions above. He is coming off a good game in the Copa del Rey, being the only standout player in the game. Ania could bet on him from the start or continue to give him minutes in the league, which he hasn’t had since the Albacete game. As the Asturian coach pointed out, “he is the player who emerged the most strengthened from the trip to the Copa del Rey.” This could also be his turning point to become big in the league.
As the day goes on, the competition intensifies within the team. On this occasion, Jacobo’s defeat opened the door to other teammates trying to win a starting place. The Madrilenian is currently untouchable for Iván Ania, just like Carracedo and Antonio Casas. But he showed throughout his time on the Córdoba bench that he rewarded states of form players, so candidates to start against Castellón have a chance. Whatever the choice, he must contribute offensively to a team with little firepower.
