Sevilla head coach García Plaza has defended his recent team selections after leaving striker Akor Adams on the bench for a second consecutive match, as the club secured a narrow but significant 1-0 victory over Real Sociedad in La Liga.
The result, sealed by a decisive goal from Alexis Sánchez, provides a crucial boost to Sevilla FC’s efforts to move away from the relegation zone in what has been a challenging season. With every point now critical, the win represents more than a routine success, underlining a shift in priorities at the club as they battle to maintain their top-flight status.
Despite Adams’ notable contributions this season, including eight goals and three assists, he remained an unused substitute throughout the match. The decision has prompted discussion, given his role as one of Sevilla’s more consistent attacking performers, highlighted by a penalty scored against Atlético Madrid earlier in the campaign.
However, speaking after the match, García Plaza dismissed suggestions that past performances guarantee a place in the starting line-up.
“I bet on Neal, and he scored a goal the other day, that’s all there is to it,” he said.
The manager emphasised that his current approach is based firmly on immediate impact rather than reputation or previous achievements.
“Akor, with me, has played every game; he scored a penalty against Atlético, but right now, it’s not the number of minutes each player gets that’s important, but the quality of the minutes they give us,” García Plaza explained.
Instead of Adams, the coach opted to start Chidera Ejuke, whose style of play offered a different tactical dimension. Known for his direct running and ability to take on defenders, Ejuke provided the unpredictability Sevilla sought in a tightly contested encounter.
“We’re looking for the kind of situations he creates; he’s very confident, good in one-on-one situations, good at drawing defenders out,” García Plaza said.
The decision appeared to pay off, as Sevilla managed to find the balance required to secure all three points in a high-pressure fixture. The emphasis on adaptability reflects the broader context of Sevilla’s season, with the club spending much of the campaign in an unfamiliar position near the lower half of the table.
Once regular contenders in European competition, Sevilla are now focused on securing stability. García Plaza’s selections suggest a pragmatic approach, prioritising players who can influence key moments over those with established status in the squad.
For Adams, the situation presents a new challenge. While his earlier form made him a regular starter, increased competition and tactical adjustments mean his role may now evolve.
García Plaza indicated that the striker could still play an important part, albeit in a different capacity.
“If not, we’ll have Akor for the second half,” he said.
With a decisive stretch of fixtures ahead, Sevilla’s fight for survival continues, and the manager’s willingness to make bold decisions could prove pivotal in determining their fate.
