Isma Ruiz leads Córdoba’s ‘old guard’ to get back on track

Córdoba are looking to steady the ship in Liga 2026-27 with Isma Ruiz driving the plan: the midfielder has played 630 minutes across seven matchdays, all as a starter, and is positioned as the key to getting back near the points.

As Sport notes, Iván Ania is trying to blend that “glue” between a roster that has added 17 players and the experience of the club’s veteran core. Ruiz starred in the comeback against Albacete (1-2) after three straight defeats and, even after the 3-1 loss at Valladolid, he kept showing up as one of the main references.

The push also leans on Christian Carracedo, whose early form has been uneven, and Diego Bri, who scored in the 2-1 win over Girona after earning his permanent spot this summer via the option triggered from Atlético Madrileño. Defensively, Rubén Alves remains the scheme’s barometer: with injuries currently not hitting him, the goal is to return to his best level. With Youssouf Diarra sidelined, Eder García looks set to partner in midfield while Adnane Ghailan battles for an advanced role.