Sevilla scored an invaluable away win at Anoeta against Real Sociedad, with Dodi Lukebakio grabbing the only goal of the game. It was a result that has become unfamiliar for Los Nervionenses in recent seasons, grinding out a win against another European contender, and a sign of the fact that they are, gradually improving.
Getting a read on where they might finish the season is an impossible task with La Liga’s middle section becoming tighter by the matchday. Anyone who does have what they feel is a clear read on Sevilla should head to Betano App. After a desperate season last time out, finishing XXth and going through three managers for a second season in a row, just finishing in their current position of 10th would represent improvement.
Demands are high though in Seville, and particularly if rivals Real Betis do, as looks likely, finish ahead of them, there will be calls for consequences in the summer. New manager Garcia Pimienta has stabilised the team, but has done so without really implementing the style of play that he made his name with. Not to mention the fact that he has publicly voiced concerns about not having the resources that he needs to compete properly.
On the other hand, Sporting Director Victor Orta is into his second season. After taking a risk on Uruguayan manager Diego Alonso, and walking back on his words to sign Sergio Ramos, Monchi’s disciple is already on the back foot. Yet even evaluating his contributions will be difficult. Sevilla started this season with a salary limit of just €9m, evidence of their financial issues, and has been forced to gamble on younger players and short-term patches.
Looking ahead to the summer, it looks as if they will struggle to retain star forward Lukebakio, who has raised the ceiling of this Sevilla side considerably. Meanwhile after two transfer windows of speculation, hanging onto Loic Bade also looks a tall task. While their exits may ease their salary limit woes, replacing their contribution on a budget looks an almost impossible task.
Should Sevilla qualify for Europe this season, which could come for the side finishing as low as eighth, then it will be branded as success. Anything less will likely see pressure piled onto both Orta and Garcia Pimienta. Separating their contribution from their circumstances is once again a daunting prospect, making any true reading on how to proceed next summer an estimation at best. Sevilla have reasons for hope, but the forecast remains somewhat murky if they don’t reach European football.
