From Champions League hopefuls to relegation candidates — what went wrong at Girona in 2025-26? A forensic analysis of tactical rigidity, flawed signings, and systemic failure.
Girona’s dream season in 2024-25, which saw them finish fourth and qualify for the Champions League, was built on high-intensity pressing and fluid attacking transitions. But in 2025-26, that same system became their undoing. Under manager Míchel, Girona stubbornly stuck to an aggressive 4-3-3, failing to adapt against teams that targeted their high defensive line and overcommitted full-backs. The absence of a true defensive midfielder left Yangel Herrera isolated, and the central pairing of Arnau Martínez and Martín repeatedly exposed on the counter.
By January 2026, Girona had conceded 2.3 goals per game — the worst defensive record in La Liga. Despite maintaining 58% average possession, their attacks lacked penetration, yielding only 1.1 goals per match after the winter break. Opponents like Real Sociedad and Celta Vigo exploited the space behind Álvaro Jiménez, whose attacking instincts were not matched by defensive discipline. The system, once praised for its modernity, now looked naive and unsustainable.
“Girona plays like a team with nothing to lose. But they’re in a fight for survival — and their tactics don’t reflect that urgency.” — Tactical analyst, The Athletic
Girona’s summer 2025 transfer window was supposed to solidify their top-six credentials. Instead, it became a case study in misjudged recruitment. The 18 million euro signing of Adama Soumaré from Reims was a major disappointment. Brought in to replace Samu Omorodion, Soumaré managed just 2 goals in 22 appearances before being benched in January. His lack of pace and poor decision-making disrupted the left flank, nullifying one of Girona’s key attacking avenues.
The acquisition of Jorge Cuenca from Villarreal was another misfire. Cuenca, a zonal defender by nature, struggled in Girona’s man-marking system and lacked the speed to recover against quick wingers. Meanwhile, the loan of João Neves from PSG failed to deliver. Expected to add control, Neves disrupted the midfield balance with his reluctance to press. With no reinforcements in January, Girona’s squad depth — already thin — collapsed under the dual burden of La Liga and Champions League football.
Míchel was lauded for Girona’s rise, but his inflexibility in 2025-26 has drawn fierce criticism. He refused to shift to a more compact 4-2-3-1 or deploy a dedicated holding midfielder, even as losses piled up. His continued faith in Mykhailo Dovbyk, who scored just 5 goals in 28 games, highlighted a lack of tactical creativity. Substitutions were often predictable, and in-game adjustments rare.
Yet Míchel inherited a flawed squad. The club’s financial constraints — tied to UEFA’s Financial Sustainability Regulations — limited January signings. The dual campaign drained the squad, and key injuries to Portu and Castellanos went unaddressed. While Míchel bears responsibility for tactical stagnation, the failure is systemic: a lack of long-term planning, over-reliance on City Football Group loans, and inadequate scouting.
To avoid a relegation battle in 2026-27, Girona must act decisively. First, overhaul the tactical system. A shift to a 4-2-3-1 or 3-5-2 would provide better defensive cover and reduce vulnerability to counters. Second, clean house in the transfer market. Soumaré and Cuenca should be moved on, and a true defensive midfielder — such as Walace or Moi Gómez — must be signed.
Third, redefine the sporting project. Girona cannot remain a satellite club without investment in infrastructure, youth development, and long-term squad planning. The City Group model works in Manchester and New York, but in Spain’s competitive landscape, identity and stability matter. Without them, Girona risks becoming a cautionary tale of unsustainable ambition.
Q: Will Girona sack their manager?
A: A decision on Míchel’s future is expected post-season. While he retains locker-room support, another season of crisis could lead to his dismissal, especially if relegation is threatened.
Q: Who should Girona sign in summer 2026?
A: A defensive midfielder (e.g. Walace), a fast and disciplined center-back, and a consistent winger. A young goalkeeper may also be needed if Paulo Gazzaniga departs.
Q: Why is Girona playing so badly?
A: A combination of outdated tactics, failed signings, lack of squad depth, and poor adaptation to European competition. The club’s reliance on the City Group’s loan system has created instability and a lack of cohesion.