Best Odds: 19/20
Bookmaker:
Looking to extend on their remarkable start to the 2023/24 campaign, Girona will travel to the Nuevo Los Carmenes on Monday night when they meet Granada.
Granada
Starting with the hosts, although Granada might have claimed a much-needed 3-2 victory at home against Mallorca last month, it appears that might have just been a minor boost for Paco Lopez’s struggling squad. Last seen heading into September’s international break with an action-packed 5-3 defeat at the hands of Real Sociedad, the Nasrids are seeking some crucial stability. Although the Andalusia-based outfit might have gained plenty of praise as they secured a La Liga return last season, Granada have lost four of their opening five appearances. Getting proceedings underway with a routine 3-1 defeat against Spanish giants Atletico Madrid on August 14th, it is worth highlighting that Monday’s hosts have shipped 13 strikes in their first four La Liga showdowns the worst defensive tally among La Liga’s elite.
Team News
Only making a single appearance since making the move from Real Madrid this summer, Granada are once again sweating over the fitness of 26-year-old Jesus Vallejo. Likewise, yet to make a single La Liga appearance this season, Lopez will also be without defender Raul Torrente.
Already notching a pair of La Liga strikes from his first four appearances, ex-Elche striker Lucas Boye will spearhead the Nasrids’ charge on Monday night.
Girona
As for the visitors, while Granada might find themselves in the midst of an extended struggle, Girona are enjoying a stunning early-season flurry. With the mood in Michel’s camp at a red-hot high, the Catalonia-based outfit will be smelling the chance to lay down another marker here. Impressing many across Spain’s elite last season as they landed an eye-catching top-half finish, the former Huecsa boss will be calling on his side to carry on from where they left off earlier in the month. Heading into September’s international break with a 1-0 victory at home against Las Palmas, Girona have won each of their last three La Liga appearances and they open this weekend’s fixtures remarkably sat second in the standings. Already putting 10 points on the board and riding an extended wave of momentum, Michel’s side will travel to the Nuevo Los Carmenes looking to show another statement of intent.
Team News
Dealing with what has been a stacked injury list, Girona will once again be without the likes of Antonino Jastin, Borja Garcia, Joel Roca and Toni Villa. However, overcoming a recent knock and travelling away with Peru during the international break, 31-year-old Alexander Callens could make a first appearance of the season.
Coming off the bench and bagging a late winner against Las Palmas prior to the international break, 31-year-old Portu will be hoping to make a first start of the season here.
Key Factors to Consider
