José Alberto Criticizes Luis Suárez’s Virus Impact: “It Distorts Competition”
Racing’s coach José Alberto López prepared his team all week for Sunday’s visit to Ibercaja Estadio. Kickoff is scheduled for 18:30. The match pits Racing against a Real Zaragoza side fighting to secure its league status.
Availability concerns and coach reaction
José Alberto confirmed nine absences for the trip to Zaragoza. Five players are missing due to the so-called Luis Suárez virus, and four more are sidelined through injury.
He said he must field whoever is available. He also criticized the congested calendar and warned it can alter fairness. José Alberto criticized the Luis Suárez virus impact, saying it distorts competition.
Players sidelined
- Eriksson
- Salinas
- Puerta
- Peio Canales
- Guliashvili
Four of those five would likely be starters under normal conditions. The other four injured players were not named by the coach.
Squad depth and opportunities
Despite the losses, José Alberto emphasized the squad’s readiness. He described the situation as an opportunity for quieter squad members.
He pointed to players like Íñigo Sainz-Maza and Aldasoro as candidates to seize their chance. The staff remains calm and confident in the group available.
Opposition and match context
David Navarro’s Zaragoza has improved in recent weeks. José Alberto noted clear similarities with the team that began the season.
He warned that Ibercaja is a demanding environment. Zaragoza needs points at home to boost its survival bid.
Milestone for the coach
Sunday will be José Alberto’s 149th match in charge of Racing. That will move him past Nando Yosu in the club’s managerial appearance list.
He will sit third all-time, behind Maguregui and Moruca. José Alberto says he values the record but prefers to focus on results.
Filmogaz.com will follow the build-up and provide match coverage. The coach’s contract runs through 2028.
