Ibai Gómez warns: Zaragoza change system and strengthen midfield

Ibai Gómez, head coach of Real Zaragoza, made it clear in his press conference that the approach for this Sunday’s game against Cartagena at the Ibercaja Estadio will be “very different” from what they showed earlier against Juventud de Torremolinos, with a system shift aimed at giving more weight to interior play.

A new system, new plan

As he explained, “there will be a change of system and Jaume (Jardí) will play, along with ten more,” adding that the demands of this match are different. “The system will change because there are things we need in this game that weren’t as necessary in the previous one.” He also spelled out the intent: “we’ll have more of the ball, more inside play, and the team has many ways to hurt the opponent.”

Possible XI rotations

Asked whether the plan could resemble how Zaragoza finished against Torremolinos, with Saidu moving into the half-space as Terrer came on for Ander to form a 4-3-3 or a 4-1-4-1, Ibai didn’t rule it out. Rubén Díez is one name that could get his chance in midfield for the first time, potentially alongside Ademo and Ander Herrera—though the coach stressed they’ll monitor loads. “We’ll see whether in the squad or in the match we regulate loads in some cases or not. We already did it with Edu (Espiau) against Torremolinos.”

With that in mind, Pau Sans could miss out and Terrer could start if Ander is rested.

Questions up front and in defense

On the wings, Ureña is pushing for a spot against Vadillo, and the coach said Vadillo is “like a plane,” even if he admitted they’ll decide based on who offers the best option: “both him and Sangallí are in perfect shape to start, and we’ll see if they do.” Sangalli already started versus Torremolinos and could be in again. In defense, Iranzo and Diego look set in the middle despite picking up knocks, while Pereira could keep his role at left-back after taking Escudero’s place.

Overall, Sport notes that Ibai is clear there’s no “ideal XI”—the lineup will be shaped by what they believe gives them the best chance to win.