Luís Castro explains why Etta Eyong is out of Levante’s XI | OneFootball

Luís Castro has addressed Etta Eyong’s reduced role, with the Levante UD striker named on the bench in five straight games.

The 22-year-old last started on 8 February 2026 against Athletic Club, after being a substitute against Valencia, Villarreal, Barcelona, Alavés and Girona. He began the season in Primera División with five goals and two assists.

"It is the question I am asked many times. Before the Africa Cup of Nations he was already not at his level. He is a striker who does his job and he needs to score. I have to pick the eleven," he told Onda Deportiva Valencia.

"I am one hundred per cent sure that if I start Etta and put Espí on the bench I will be questioned. If I go with two forwards and pick Etta-Espí, they will then ask why Paco Cortés is not playing."

In Eyong’s absence from the XI, Carlos Espí has seized the role, offering the cutting edge Levante needed. Selection remains merit based, as Castro stressed, and Eyong must regain rhythm and confidence if he is to reclaim his place. Levante’s fight for survival will demand the best from all.

Source: Superdeporte