Luis Castro rules out Sotelo and Primo; backs Etta Eyong

Levante U. D.

Etta Eyong, Sotelo and Primo still not available

Luis Castro confirmed that Hugo Sotelo and Álex Primo are still not recovered, although both are progressing well from their respective injuries.

Regarding Karl Etta Eyong, he explained that he is already taking part partially in group training, but is still not ready to compete.

«He is already training, but he has not done 100% sessions. I am not going to take risks», he said.

The coach expects that Etta Eyong can train normally next week, so his return is getting closer.

Ndukwe gains prominence in defence

The coach praised the performance of Ifeanyi Ndukwe, especially after his first start.

«He played a very, very good match», he said.

However, he reminded that there are four centre-backs competing for two spots, also highlighting the good level of Jorge Cabello. As a result, Ndukwe has more options, but his place in the starting XI is not guaranteed.

Iván Romero keeps the coach's trust

Luis Castro highlighted the excellent performance of Iván Romero, both for his attacking contribution and his defensive commitment.

«He is a player who, whenever he plays, gives you guarantees that you are going to compete», he explained.

Although he avoided calling him an undisputed starter, his comments show that Iván Romero is still one of the key pieces in Levante's attack.

Ratkov and Musuayi, growing alternatives

The coach also analysed the progress of Petar Ratkov and Yanis Musuayi.

Castro believes that Ratkov is currently more prepared, although he still needs to adapt to the team. For his part, Musuayi continues to improve and has already shown in training that he is capable of playing.

Both could gradually gain more prominence over the coming matchdays.

Bardeli and the growing competition for the XI

Asked about Enzo Bardeli, the coach said there is no problem with the player and highlighted his daily work.

However, he acknowledged that other players' improvement is increasing the competition for minutes.

«It is harder to give minutes to everyone. For some who were playing, it will be more difficult; those who were not playing will get minutes», he explained.

With Olasagasti, Oriol Rey and Dani Requena also competing for opportunities, Castro made it clear that the line-ups will depend on performance and the needs of each match.

In addition, the coach warned that Levante has only three days to recover after the match against Sevilla, a factor that could influence his decisions when visiting Riazor.