Alavés opens its season against Eibar in a live match that serves as Laguardia’s first competitive test. The new lineup includes several surprises.
Pre-season friendlies offered mixed signals. Laguardia experimented with a 4-3-3 formation, a shift from last season’s 4-4-2. The defense looked vulnerable on counter-attacks.
Laguardia’s tactical approach is under scrutiny. His ‘primer banco de pruebas’ focuses on full-back positioning and the midfield pivot’s defensive discipline. Eibar’s pressing style will expose any weaknesses.
| Formation | Last Season | New Setup |
|---|---|---|
| Structure | 4-4-2 | 4-3-3 |
| Midfield Pivot | Double pivot | Single pivot |
| Full-back Role | Defensive | Attacking |
The starting XI includes two debutants. Young midfielder Iván Gil gets the nod. Forward Nolaskoain is absent due to injury recovery.
In Areitio, progress is visible. Iván Gil’s arrival strengthens the midfield rotation. Nolaskoain trotted on grass this week. His return timeline is four weeks.
Key tactical battles define the match. Alavés’ backline faces Eibar’s quick transitions. Set-piece threats from corners could decide the outcome.
Fan sentiment is cautious. A win builds early momentum. A loss raises questions about Laguardia’s experiment.
💡 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q: What are the key tactical changes in Laguardia’s new lineup for the Alavés vs Eibar opener?
- A: Laguardia shifts from last season’s 4-4-2 to a 4-3-3 formation, focusing on full-back attacking roles and a single midfield pivot, which may expose defensive vulnerabilities against counter-attacks.
- Q: Which players are notable in the starting XI for Alavés against Eibar?
- A: Young midfielder Iván Gil makes his debut, while forward Nolaskoain is absent due to injury recovery. Areitio shows visible progress in training.
- Q: How does Eibar’s playing style challenge Alavés in this match?
- A: Eibar’s pressing style tests Alavés’ defensive discipline and full-back positioning, especially during quick transitions and set-piece threats from corners.
Extended Reading
Core data sourced from Gasteiz Hoy live coverage, Noticias de Álava tactical analysis, and AS fitness updates on Areitio’s progress.