Football Season Guide

Alaves have been unimpressive but stable for some time in recent years, but the departure of Eduardo Coudet and arrival of Quique Sanchez Flores saw them drift dangerously towards a relegation battle at the end of the campaign. The departures of several valuable squad players this season, and the lack of proven talents at this level, has Alaves fans sweating ahead of the new campaign. Transfer business has ratcheted up as the season edges near, but there is still a clear lack of depth in midfield and attack. Their starting XI itself is strong. In attack, Toni Martinez and Lucas Boye both reached double figures last season and have begun to form a strong partnership together with pace and aerial strength. In midfield, Antonio Blanco continues despite interest from bigger clubs. The issue lies in the lack of reserves should any be ruled out. Many of those who could step in, such as Mariano Diaz in attack or Denis Suarez in midfield, are far beyond their best days, and the younger generation, such as arrivals Miguel Rodriguez and Mikel Rodriguez, are untested in the top flight. Alaves' Mendizorroza has been a fortress in previous seasons, but last year lost six games. Bringing that back to the home strength of years before, such as 2023/24 when they had the seventh best home record, could be crucial. Another relegation battle seems likely for Alaves, but they have an experienced operator in Quique Sanchez Flores in the dugout. His experience and defensive strength could be crucial to getting more out of this squad than the individuals in it might suggest.