In the 34th round of LaLiga at the Montilivi stadium, Girona and Mallorca play a decisive match that could determine their future chances of staying in the top division. Both coaches have made significant changes to their starting lineups to strengthen their positions in the battle for survival.
Key changes
Girona’s roster features three new names: Frances, Beltrán, and Roca. Alex Moreno, Iván Martín, and Lemar have dropped out. In defense, Omar Mascarell replaces David López, while Joel Roca has appeared on the left flank. The attack relies on Tsygankov, Ounahi, and Echeverri, and the team’s formation may shift during the match—Arnau can move into the wing-back role, adding flexibility.
Mallorca also surprised: Mascarell has been moved to the center of defense, with Kalumba starting up front from the outset. Morlanes has appeared in midfield, while David López and Virgili are left out of the squad—the latter due to health issues. Up front, Kalumba is partnered by Muriqi, who is having his best season with the club.
Tournament situation and statistics
Girona is in a more advantageous position, with a four-point lead over the relegation zone with five rounds to go. However, recent losses to Betis and Valencia have made Míchel’s team wary. Mallorca, on the contrary, is dangerously close to relegation: after losing to Alavés, the team sits fourth from the bottom, just one point above the drop zone.
According to statistics, Mallorca has scored five more goals than Girona and creates slightly more chances per match. At the same time, Demichelis’s team concedes slightly fewer goals, which could play a role in the head-to-head encounter.
Players under close scrutiny
Girona features Moroccan Azzedine Ounahi, who sets the tempo and is actively involved in pressing. His play in attack and when transitioning to defense may prove decisive for the hosts. For Mallorca, the main weapon remains the Kosovar Vedat Muriqi — with 21 goals, he ranks second among the league’s top scorers, behind only Mbappé.
The importance of this match is also highlighted by the fact that both teams are forced to seek new solutions due to injuries and illnesses among players. Girona’s losses include Álex Moreno, Vanat, Portu, Abel Ruiz, Van de Beek, and Ter Stegen.
Context and significance of the match
As they open the round, Girona and Mallorca find themselves in the spotlight: the outcome could shift the balance of power at the lower end of the table. Such matches have repeatedly proven decisive for teams fighting for survival, as seen in a recent Levante vs Sevilla clash, where the result directly affected the relegation zone standings (more on the LaLiga relegation battle).
Kickoff is scheduled for 21:00 local time. Both teams are expected to play as cautiously as possible, but will also try to seize every opportunity to pick up points and avoid a critical situation at the end of the season.
