Granada still waiting for José Arnaiz to hit top form

Granada’s early talk has been dominated by the younger players’ impact, but internally they know the next step is that José Arnaiz shows up with the level that matches his role. As MARCA points out, the forward still hasn’t displayed his most decisive form in the opening weeks.

Arnaiz arrived at Los Cármenes last season to become a key piece of Pacheta’s project. Although he needed time at first, he grew into a leadership role in attack, finishing as the team’s offensive reference with 9 goals and 2 assists. This time around, that offensive impact is taking longer to return, and Granada feel it most in matches that get stuck—when Arnaiz’s quality should be deciding games.

Tactical reshuffle

This season’s circumstances have pushed him away from his most natural rhythm, according to MARCA. With Bamba sidelined due to injury, Rodelas moved to the right wing and Alemañ set up in the number ten spot, Arnaiz has been used on the left side of the attack. The shift narrows his game, forces extra work to beat opponents and reduces the frequency of one of his biggest strengths: his powerful strike.

For now, his output doesn’t reflect that ceiling—he is yet to score or assist in the early fixtures mentioned by MARCA. The conclusion is that Pacheta still needs to refine the offensive plan so the team’s attacking mechanisms feel smoother and each player’s potential comes out more easily. And for Granada, Arnaiz is exactly the kind of player they’re waiting to fully switch on.