Andoni Iraola and Bradley Barcola became the focus of an urgent pre-match update after the coach revealed that starting the French winger had seriously been considered before the game.
Iraola’s comments offered an important insight into Barcola’s current condition, with the manager confirming that the player has looked good in training despite not having played a single minute so far.
Speaking about his decision, Iraola said: “I was leaning towards starting him today.”
The coach then explained Barcola’s current situation: “He looked good in training but he didn’t play any minutes… but he is ready, and I think we will definitely use him in the second half today.”
The comments indicate that Barcola is fully ready to contribute and remains part of the coaching staff’s plans, with a second-half appearance now looking increasingly likely depending on how the match develops.
“But he is ready, and I think we will definitely use him in the second half today.” — Andoni Iraola
Barcola therefore appears increasingly close to making an appearance, with Iraola confirming his readiness and revealing that the winger had been seriously considered for a starting role.