Quique Cárcel claims the solidity of Girona | OneFootball

The sporting director of Girona FC, Quique Cárcel, assessed the winter transfer market today in a press conference where he admitted that “it was a market that started with not very good feelings, but the results have given us peace of mind.” As he explained, “the goal was to bring in players who could be important so that Michel would have more options,” and in this regard, he highlighted that “Echeverri brings us different things. With Fran Beltrán, we made an effort because he is an important player who can compete with Witsel and Iván Martin.” Cárcel also emphasized that “we brought in Ter Stegen because obviously, he is a great goalkeeper.” Regarding the team's current form, he celebrated that “the team is in a good moment with a positive dynamic that was broken on the day of the Oviedo match, but I highly value the work they are doing.”

One of Cárcel's initial concerns was the solidity of the defensive block. He explained that “I was very worried about the defensive aspect, but for some time now, the team has been much more solid in this regard. I know we only have one pure left-back, but we have other options, Arnau, Blind...” Regarding the midfield market, he detailed that “we wanted to bring in two players, but in the end, we decided to bet on Fran. On the other hand, in attack, with Echeverri coming in, we believed we strengthened this line well.”

Ter Stegen's injury has been one of the most sensitive points. Cárcel admitted that “what happened to Ter Stegen is very tough. He came with great enthusiasm, and the injury has been a very hard blow for him and for us, logically, it has also been a problem.” He wanted to make it clear that “we are here for whatever Marc needs and to ensure he recovers in the best possible way. During his time with us, he has shown that he is an excellent person both on a human and professional level.”

Regarding the continuity of the coach, he assured that “Michel knows that the Club and Quique Cárcel want him to renew. What Michel and Girona are doing is the most sensible thing. We are focused on the objectives in a complicated year with a very tough start. Only with unity between the coaching staff, players, and Club have we been able to get out of the relegation zone. Michel is the right person to carry this forward, and I am convinced that he wants to renew.”

Despite the improvement in the standings, Cárcel warned that “we have come out of the danger zone, but let’s not forget that we can fall back into it,” and he emphasized that “no one has the absolute truth, but our job is to manage difficult situations.”

Finally, he praised Gazzaniga's performance in goal: “I can only speak wonders. He has been key for us, he has given us a lot.” On the other hand, he also wanted to highlight the work of the second team: “In the reserve team, there are many good players who can start getting professional minutes. They are having an excellent season, and their coach is too. I am very happy with the work of Girona B.”