Loan Tracker: Reguilón Impressive in Draw vs Celta Vigo

Despite suffering a concussion last weekend, Reguilon was thrusted right back into the starting line-up for Julen Lopetegui’s Sevilla. It was the first home game of the season at the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan as Sevilla took on Celta Vigo. In an affair that was completely dominated by Sevilla, Celta Vigo ended up scoring on their only shot of the match — sadly this is typical of Julen Lopetegui’s luck.

As for Real Madrid loanee, Sergio Reguilon, there is nothing but praise for his performance. The fullback played exceptionally well. He once again rampaged down the left wing and was so effective in the final third. He was a constant outlet out wide and consistently served dangerous crosses for the likes of De Jong and Munir. Just like last season, his crosses are one of the best features to his game.

Lopetegui’s tactics, arguably, are a step above the rest of Europe. It’s hard not to love what the manager is doing with this Sevilla team. Reguilón and Navas push so high up the pitch—both at the same time. They provide all the width while the “wingers” and central midfielders look to overload the half spaces. In essence they play with three strikers while in possession. Reguilón and Navas then act as the wingers. It’s a five man attacking line vs an opposition’s back four. Sevilla play with an aggressive and attacking style which Reguilon has adapted to perfectly.

As soon as Regui dishes a pass forward, he immediately looks to make a bursting run forward either overlapping or underlapping past Nolito. Neither Reguilon or Navas get caught out because the team’s press while defending in transition is so organized. Each player knows their role and very rarely is a Sevilla player out of position or late to step to their man. This meant Sevilla completely suffocated Celta and kept them nowhere near the Andalusian's goal.

Lopetegui and the whole Sevilla team will be disappointed not to have secured the three points, but they continue to impress. If Reguilon continues to perform the way he has at the start of this season, he should be in strong contention for the Spanish National team Euro 2020 squad. When you watch him play, it’s hard to see why he was allowed to leave on loan — he’s been that good. Next up for Sevilla is Alaves after the international break.