Sevilla’s summer plans have hit a stumbling block as their trip to Japan, where they were scheduled to play friendlies against Consadole Sapporo and Sagan Tosu, has been cancelled. The Spanish side had agreed to participate in these matches, but both Japanese clubs are currently embroiled in a relegation battle and did not want to divert attention from their crucial games.
According to ElDesmarque, the tour’s organizers were asked to cancel the friendlies by at least one of the Japanese clubs. This decision comes as no surprise, considering the high stakes involved in their remaining 14 games of the season, where a champion will be crowned and relegation confirmed. It is understandable that these clubs would prioritize their domestic campaign over friendly matches against Sevilla.
Sevilla has offered to reschedule the friendlies and play them at a later date. However, this setback represents an economic blow for the Spanish club as the trip was expected to be profitable. Now, they must scramble to find alternative opposition for their upcoming fixtures against Sporting, Fabinho’s Al-Ittihad, and Liverpool.
The scheduling of friendlies for J.League clubs at such a crucial stage of the season is perplexing. With almost two weeks off after the weekend, it seems illogical that these clubs would choose to schedule matches that could potentially distract them from their run-in. It is no wonder that this ‘tour’ was called off due to the circumstances.
Meanwhile, Liverpool is gearing up for their pre-season matches in the United States. They are set to face Real Betis, Arsenal, and Manchester United before returning to Anfield for their friendly against Sevilla. Manager Arne Slot is gradually welcoming back his summer internationals, with three already back in training. The rest of the players are expected to rejoin the squad in due course.
In conclusion, while Liverpool prepares for their final pre-season friendly against Sevilla, the Spanish side is facing challenges due to the cancellation of their trip to Japan. J.League clubs’ priority to focus on their remaining games has led to the cancellation, leaving Sevilla with the task of finding alternative opposition. It remains to be seen how this setback will affect their preparations for the upcoming season under new manager Garcia Pimienta.