Girona’s Stunning Rise: Can They Sustain It?
In a La Liga season brimming with surprises, one club has emerged as the standout overachiever—Girona FC. Long seen as a mid-table or relegation-battling side, the Catalan outfit has shocked Spanish football by surging into the upper echelons of the league. The question on everyone’s lips is simple: Can they sustain it?
This MB8 article dives deep into Girona’s rise, analyzes the tactical brilliance behind their ascent, dissects the key players fueling their charge, and evaluates the challenges that lie ahead. As football fans marvel at Girona’s transformation, their story reminds us why we love the league.
From Relegation Fighters to Title Challengers
Historically, Girona FC have been a modest club. Promoted to La Liga for the first time in 2017, they’ve since oscillated between Spain’s top two divisions. But something changed dramatically in the 2024–25 season.
Under the guidance of head coach Míchel Sánchez, Girona transitioned from survival mode to aggressive ambition. Not only are they winning matches, but they are doing so with flair and a distinct tactical identity. Currently occupying a top-four spot and even flirting with the top two at times, Girona’s trajectory has been nothing short of remarkable.
Tactical Identity: Fluid, Fast, and Fearless
One of the most significant drivers of Girona’s success has been their tactical evolution. Míchel has orchestrated a system that thrives on fluid formations, quick passing, and overlapping wingbacks. At times deploying a 3-4-3 and other times a 4-2-3-1, Girona’s flexibility has kept opponents guessing.
Key Tactical Traits:
High Pressing: Girona apply intense pressure high up the pitch, forcing turnovers and creating instant scoring opportunities.
Overlapping Full-Backs: The wing-backs bomb forward with consistency, supporting wide attacks and stretching defensive lines.
Vertical Transitions: They attack with speed through the middle, often catching opposing midfields off balance.
Compact Defense: Despite their aggressive attack, Girona maintain a disciplined backline, with the midfield dropping deep when needed.
This tactical blend has allowed Girona to not only win against lower-tier teams but also hold their own against the likes of Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Atlético Madrid.
The Players Behind the Dream
A tactical system is only as good as the players executing it, and Girona have several standout contributors in 2025.
1. Artem Dovbyk – The Scoring Machine
The Ukrainian striker has been phenomenal. With his physicality, movement, and clinical finishing, Dovbyk has scored crucial goals against both small and big teams. He currently sits among the top scorers in the league.
2. Aleix García – The Midfield Metronome
Aleix García dictates the tempo from midfield. His ability to control possession, deliver accurate long balls, and shield the defense has been vital to Girona’s control in tough matches.
3. Miguel Gutiérrez – The Left-Sided Engine
A product of Real Madrid’s youth academy, Gutiérrez has become Girona’s secret weapon on the left. His overlapping runs and dangerous crosses have added a new dimension to their wide play.
4. Paulo Gazzaniga – The Safe Hands
In goal, the experienced Argentine shot-stopper has been a pillar of consistency. His reflexes and leadership have saved Girona points in tight games.
Smart Recruitment and Squad Harmony
Unlike many top clubs, Girona’s success hasn’t been built on massive spending. Their recruitment strategy has been smart, focusing on undervalued talent, loan deals, and youth development.
The club has managed to maintain a harmonious dressing room, blending young ambition with veteran stability. This chemistry is evident on the pitch, where players fight for every ball and work for each other.
The affiliation with Manchester City through the City Football Group has also played a role in player development and access to rising talents through loan deals and technical support.
Girona’s Fixture Challenge: The Test of Depth
The real test for Girona will come in the final stretch of the season. Fixture congestion, injuries, and pressure to maintain results could expose the depth limitations of the squad.
In particular, should they qualify for European competition next season, their relatively thin roster will face a new level of physical and mental strain. The summer transfer window will be crucial in bolstering their bench strength.
Can They Sustain It?
Sustaining such an impressive rise in the league depends on multiple factors:
Injury Management: Can their key players stay fit for the rest of the season?
Squad Rotation: Can Míchel rotate effectively without dropping performance levels?
Mental Fortitude: Can Girona keep their nerve when the pressure to qualify for Europe intensifies?
If they can navigate these hurdles, Girona could very well secure their first-ever spot in the UEFA Champions League—a historic milestone that would elevate the club to new heights.
Girona’s Rise Is a Gift to Football
In an era where money often dictates success, Girona’s story is a refreshing reminder that smart tactics, unity, and ambition still have a place in modern football. Their rise has invigorated La Liga and captured the imagination of neutral fans.
Whether they finish in the top four or not, Girona have already achieved something extraordinary. They’ve challenged the traditional hierarchy of Spanish football and shown that any club, with the right plan, can dream big.
Conclusion: Support the Spirit of the League
Girona’s success is more than just a fluke run—it’s the embodiment of everything we love about the league: passion, tactics, young talent, and unpredictability. As the season progresses, fans should rally behind such stories that keep football magical.
Support your club. Support the dreamers. Support the league.
