Quique warns with rotations and opens the door to the less regulars against Athletic

Deportivo Alavés

Quique warns with changes to the starting XI

The main message from the press conference is about physical management. Quique acknowledged that some players arrive with a lot of minutes accumulated after the coach especially loaded the regulars in the first two matches of the week. "It is possible that players who have not played too much will appear". The manager insists he has full confidence in the entire squad, so there is a real risk of changes compared to the last starting XIs.

Several starters come in loaded

Quique explained that not every player can play three full matches in just a few days. The coaching staff has tried to distribute the workload, but several players head into the derby with a lot of accumulated fatigue. Therefore, from a fantasy perspective, you will need to be especially careful with players who have recently racked up a lot of minutes, as they could be rested or have a more limited involvement.

A back four, under review

The coach also spoke about defensive functioning. Quique admitted he was not satisfied with some movements when the team used a back four. "When you play with a back four, the shifting defense was not as quick". The manager made it clear he will keep adjusting the shape and that if he considers any tactical aspect is harming the team, he will correct it. This keeps open the possibility of alternating again between a back four and a back five.

Two forwards shape the midfield

Quique also explained that Alavés is usually using two forwards. This reduces their effectiveness in build-up and forces the team to find other ways to get the ball to the attackers. "We have to flow differently so that our forwards get the ball as well as possible". The attacking system appears to remain in place, although the coach continues to look for a better balance in midfield.