In other words, Real Zaragoza coach Ibai Gómez now has options in every position. The right-back spot was the only one still lacking depth, with Jokin Gabilondo the sole available player there until now. Regardless of who starts, competition for the position is assured.
Nobody was absent from the first session after the transfer window closed. Everyone was available. This also highlights a noteworthy fact, one that was uncommon last season: Real Zaragoza have no injured players. This is vital for achieving the consistency needed to earn promotion to the Segunda División.
BUILD-UP
Another aspect worth highlighting is that, apart from Sangalli, the other players who did not make their debuts last week because of their recent arrival have now completed an additional week of training. These include Iranzo and Ureña, theoretical starters for Real Zaragoza who have yet to debut. Having taken on the necessary ideas and concepts, as well as gained more match fitness, they are now ready to make their debuts.
As of today, Real Zaragoza have everyone available. The treatment room is empty and no players are dealing with physical problems. The last players to join the squad were Diego González, who had been training separately under medical protocol after suffering a blow to the head, and Monzón. Both are now available.
If everything goes as planned, Ibai Gómez will have plenty of players to choose from for his starting XI. He will also have options to change the game with the five permitted substitutions. Barring any surprises, he has the tools to win.
THE MATCH
This Saturday at 9:00 p.m., Real Zaragoza will host Antequera, who arrive after beating Ibiza 3-2. Victory is mandatory and essential to avoid a first crisis of the season just around the corner. It is also crucial to prevent the match against Juventud de Torremolinos in the first half of September from being labelled a final.
For all these reasons, Real Zaragoza need to win. Their second opportunity of the season to do so has arrived, and it will come at Ibercaja Estadio, where the record of celebrations since its inauguration is almost untouched. At the very least, the tally of disappointments must not increase.
