Sevilla manager García Pimienta has confirmed that Nigerian forwards Chidera Ejuke and Kelechi Iheanacho are available for selection ahead of their second La Liga fixture against Villarreal on Friday.
Ejuke, who joined Sevilla from CSKA Moscow, was expected to make an impact in Sevilla’s opening match against Las Palmas after an impressive preseason. However, the Nigerian winger was surprisingly left on the bench for the entire duration of the game, raising concerns about his fitness.
Pimienta has since addressed these concerns, clarifying that the decision to omit Ejuke was tactical rather than due to injury.
“Ejuke is doing very well,” Pimienta explained during his pre-match press conference. “The other day he didn’t come in because of our decision considering the state of the team. Tomorrow, if necessary, he will help the team.”
Kelechi Iheanacho set for La Liga debut
Kelechi Iheanacho, who recently joined Sevilla from Leicester City, was also absent from the squad in the 2-2 draw against Las Palmas due to registration issues.
These issues have now been resolved, and the former Manchester City striker is poised to make his La Liga debut at the Estadio Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán.
“For tomorrow we will have practically the entire squad except for Suso, who is injured. We want the team to be recognizable and to play as equals regardless of the opponent. Tomorrow we play at home,” Pimienta added.
Sevilla, the record holders of seven UEFA Cup/Europa League titles, endured a challenging 2023-24 campaign, finishing 14th in La Liga, just eight points above the relegation zone.
The availability of Chidera Ejuke and Kelechi Iheanacho adds depth to Pimienta’s squad as they seek to improve on last season’s disappointing finish.