SEVILLE, July 27 (Reuters) – The Estadio El Arcángel hosts a preseason derby on Monday that is more than a friendly. It is a tactical laboratory for Sevilla’s Version 4.0 under coach Ania.
Luis García Plaza has called up 24 players for the IV Trofeo Puertas de Córdoba. The match kicks off at 21:00 local time, broadcast on Movistar LaLiga.
The 24-man squad includes key starters like goalkeeper Bono and midfielder Ivan Rakitic. Fringe players such as defender Kike Salas are included. Emerging talents like winger Juanlu Sánchez are present. Notable absences include injured striker Rafa Mir, shaping a more experimental lineup.
The Trofeo Puertas de Córdoba holds significance in Sevilla’s preseason calendar. It serves as a high-pressure test for Ania’s 4.0 system, which shifts to a 4-3-3 formation with high pressing triggers and fast attacking patterns.
Córdoba, a Segunda side, enters aggressively. They aim to exploit Sevilla’s preseason experimentation. The hostile atmosphere at El Arcángel tests mental and tactical resilience.
Key players to watch
| Player | Role in Version 4.0 | Pressure indicator |
|---|---|---|
| Bono | Goalkeeper, build-up play | High – must distribute under pressure |
| Ivan Rakitic | Midfield pivot, pressing trigger | High – orchestrates transitions |
| Juanlu Sánchez | Winger, direct running | Moderate – embodies attacking pattern |
Sevilla’s defensive gaps remain a pain point. Transition vulnerabilities and set-piece weaknesses persist. Córdoba’s aggressive approach could expose these flaws.
This match offers early clues about Sevilla’s readiness for La Liga. The derby at El Arcángel reveals ambition and tactical identity for the 2026–27 season.
💡 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q: Why is the Córdoba vs Sevilla preseason derby important?
- A: It serves as a high-pressure test for Sevilla’s Version 4.0 system, experimenting with a 4-3-3 formation, high pressing triggers, and fast attacking patterns.
- Q: Which key players are missing for Sevilla?
- A: Striker Rafa Mir is absent due to injury, shaping a more experimental lineup.
- Q: What are Sevilla’s main weaknesses in this match?
- A: Defensive gaps, transition vulnerabilities, and set-piece weaknesses persist, which Córdoba’s aggressive approach could exploit.
Extended Reading
Luis García Plaza’s 24-man squad list is available at sevillafc.es. Match details, including kickoff time and TV channels, were confirmed by Marca on July 23, 2026. AS.com reported on El Arcángel’s introduction to Ania’s Version 4.0 on July 22, 2026.