Four Caucuses Threaten Visit to Getafe

Athletic Club in Vilo: Four Caucuses Threaten the Visit to Getafe

Sancet and Berenguer join Galarreta and Paredes on the tightrope, complicating Valverde's plans

The Athletic Club infirmary seems to give a respite, but the accumulation of yellow cards puts Ernesto Valverde's team in check for the next matches. The victory in Montilivi against Girona, although it added three valuable points, left a bittersweet taste when the fourth warning was confirmed for Oihan Sancet and Álex Berenguer. Both players, pillars in the red and white attack, thus join Iker Galarreta and Iñigo Paredes, who were already carrying the same number of cards and were prepared.

This situation generates considerable concern within the club, since the sanction of just one of these four players could mean their absence in a key match: the visit to the Coliseum Alfonso Pérez to face Getafe. The match, corresponding to the return leg after the national team break, is scheduled for Sunday, April 5 at 2:00 p.m., a schedule that requires maximum concentration and squad availability.

The accumulation of warnings is not an isolated event, but a direct consequence of the intensity and defensive rigor that characterize Athletic in each match. The fight for every ball, suffocating pressure and disputes in the center of the field, although they are hallmarks of the team, also carry an inherent risk of receiving cards. In this sense, Reguena's sanction in Girona for accumulation of warnings, although it freed the player from a cycle, has opened the door to new problems.

The loss of Iñigo Paredes, who has been out of action for two games due to a calf bruise suffered in the second leg of the Copa del Rey against Real Sociedad, adds to the list of concerns. The centre-back, fundamental in the defence, was forced to leave the field of play after an unfortunate collision with a rival player. His absence has been notable, and his return is eagerly awaited by the coaching staff and the fans.

However, it's not all bad news for Valverde. The good news lies in the imminent return of Yeray Álvarez. The defender, who was serving a sanction imposed by UEFA, may be available to face Getafe. His sanction expires on April 2, just in time to reinforce the defense in a game where solidity at the back will be crucial.

The management of yellow cards thus becomes the main headache for the Navarrese coach. He will have to carefully weigh the lineup and substitutions for the next match against Real Betis in San Mamés, scheduled for Sunday at 6:30 p.m. The temptation to reserve one of those warned to avoid the sanction is real, but the weight of the three points at home against a direct rival like Betis could force you to take risks.

The Athletic squad is at a crucial moment in the season. The fight for European places is more alive than ever, and each match is played like a final. Valverde's ability to manage this card crisis, combined with the recovery of troops, will be decisive for the team's future in the coming weeks. The fans, for their part, trust in the determination and fighting spirit that has always characterized Athletic, hoping that they will overcome this obstacle and continue dreaming of great deeds.

**Frequently Asked Questions:**

Who are the Athletic Club players with the most yellow cards?

Currently, Sancet, Berenguer, Galarreta and Paredes have accumulated four yellow cards each.

What game would the sanctioned players miss?

They would miss the visit to Getafe at the Alfonso Pérez Coliseum.

When is the game against Getafe played?

The game is scheduled for Sunday, April 5 at 2:00 p.m.

Why did Iñigo Paredes miss the last games?

Paredes was out due to a calf bruise suffered in the Copa del Rey.

When will Yeray Álvarez be able to play?

Yeray will be able to play from April 2, once his UEFA sanction expires.

What is Athletic Club's next game in San Mamés?