Factors Affecting Eibar’s Performance
Eibar’s limited goal scoring can be attributed to various factors beyond the lack of quality in the midfield. The team’s inability to maintain control of the game and their struggles to play the ball out from the back are significant concerns. This often forces them to resort to long balls, which is not their strength.
Historical Reliability in Ball Play
Historically, Eibar was reliable in playing the ball out from the back, thanks in part to specialists like Berrocal and Arbilla, who were aided by the exceptional talent of Matheus Pereira. This quality allowed other players, such as Aketxe and Mario Soriano, to receive the ball in advantageous positions with space to maneuver.
Current Challenges
The loss of key players, including Berrocal to Getafe, and the injuries to Arbilla and Matheus, have significantly hindered Eibar’s ability to play the ball out effectively. Players like Arambarri, Chema, and Peru Nolaskoain struggle with progressing the ball from the back, which exacerbates the team’s problems.
Expectations for Improvement
The recent additions to the team are expected to contribute to improving the inner game, but the return of Arbilla and Matheus is crucial for enhancing the team’s offensive capabilities. Both players have a high likelihood of being in the starting lineup for the upcoming match against Deportivo at Ipurua. Their return not only brings back two of the team’s best players in terms of foot skill but also the players who led the competition in passes last year.