Girona Faces Challenges in Debut Champions League Season

Girona is adjusting to life in the Champions League after last season’s remarkable third-place finish in La Liga. The Spanish club, backed by the City Football Group since 2017 is facing new challenges on the European stage. Ivan Quiros a lifelong Girona fan, described the team’s qualification as an “unattainable dream” come true. Girona’s rise has been swift having only reached Spain’s top division in 2017 after years in lower leagues.

Girona’s Champions League debut has been tough with back-to-back defeats including a narrow 1-0 loss to Paris St-Germain and a 3-2 home defeat to Feyenoord, marked by three own goals. Despite this, the team continues to show resilience in a demanding campaign with manager Michel’s side currently sitting 12th in La Liga after 10 matches.

However, the loss of key players like Artem Dovbyk, who joined Roma and Aleix Garcia now at Bayer Leverkusen has impacted their early form. The City Football Group’s investment has transformed Girona, but the team operates on a modest budget compared to other top clubs. Sporting director Quique Carcel has been instrumental in shaping the squad through smart transfers and loans.

Despite uncertainties, Girona’s fearless attacking style under coach Michel remains their hallmark and the club’s leadership hopes to continue building on last season’s success. With an eye on the future, Girona faces the challenge of balancing domestic success with European aspirations but the support from City Football Group and a growing fanbase could help sustain their rise.