First up is goalkeeper Ander Astralaga. He was between the posts on the fateful day when Real Zaragoza effectively, though not mathematically, confirmed their relegation. In the story of their drop to the third tier, one match stands out: the clash with Granada in the 38th round. A goal from Álex Sola in the 98th minute virtually ended their survival hopes.
In addition, left-back Arnau Sola played in the Segunda División with Cartagena during the 2023/24 season, and made his LaLiga debut with Villarreal in 2025. In central defense, Yaakobishvili has also gained experience in the second tier with Andorra and in the top flight with Girona, although only in one match.
Granada players celebrate their victory over Real Zaragoza. Photo: LaLiga
Another player on this list who was an opponent last season is Thiago Helguera, who played the full 90 minutes in a match that shaped Zaragoza’s campaign. In the 34th round, Real Zaragoza had the chance to reach the edge of the relegation battle. Mirandés, the aforementioned player’s team and a direct rival in the fight, visited Ibercaja Estadio and took all three points with a 1–2 victory. That day left its mark.
Meanwhile, forward David García spent several years within S.D. Huesca’s setup, although in the youth ranks. He usually starts alongside Marc Domenech, who featured in the top flight with Mallorca and in the Segunda División with Ceuta. This season, he has scored twice.
FROM THE BENCH
This is the lineup Fernando Torres has used most often, but there is another threat for Real Zaragoza on the bench. Perhaps the most dangerous one. Cubo, who is just 18, has already made his Atlético de Madrid debut and scored once for the first team against Valencia. This season, he has scored twice, both goals coming against Real Murcia.
So, on paper, Atlético Madrileño could be one of the teams challenging near the top of Primera RFEF. However, their start has been far from spectacular, and their record includes only two wins from six matches. These are hardly numbers to get excited about.
Real Zaragoza are now set to visit Centro Deportivo Alcalá de Henares at the best moment of their season. Even so, they need to win to ensure they remain top of the table for another round. They will face both threats and familiar faces.
