“Tomorrow is an opportunity” for Iheanacho as Sevilla faces Las Rozas in Copa del Rey

Despite promised game time, Iheanacho last played for Sevilla on September 29 and has been benched for three consecutive matches.

Sevilla head coach García Pimienta has challenged Kelechi Iheanacho to make the most of his chance when the team faces Las Rozas in the Copa del Rey on Wednesday, October 30.

Despite promises of more playing time, Iheanacho has not featured for Sevilla since September 29, when he played 59 minutes in a 1-1 draw against Atletico Bilbao. Since then, the Super Eagles striker has been benched for three consecutive matches against Real Betis, Barcelona, and Espanyol.

Addressing Iheanacho’s situation ahead of Sevilla’s midweek fixture against Las Rozas in the Copa del Rey, Pimienta said, “With Kelechi, it’s true he hasn’t scored yet, but he’s also had very limited minutes. And that’s partly on me since I’ve chosen other players. Tomorrow is an opportunity for Kelechi and for all the players who will be involved. The game is as important as any league match, whether it’s against Espanyol or Real Sociedad.*

“Kelechi will start tomorrow, and I hope he plays well. I want him to score, but more importantly, I want him to perform at a level that builds his confidence—something that has been missing lately.”

In the same press conference, Pimienta also provided an update on Chidera Ejuke, who is sidelined with a high-grade hamstring injury. “It hasn’t been decided yet whether Ejuke will need surgery,’’ the 50-year-old said. “The club’s medical team is still evaluating the situation. We’ll have clarity soon, and the club will communicate the decision once it’s finalized.”

Ejuke has enjoyed a brighter start to life at Sevilla compared to Iheanacho. Following their transfer to the Rojiblancos during the last summer transfer, the former CSKA Moscow winger has scored once in nine appearances and was named Sevilla’s Player of the Month for September.