Roberto De Zerbi, the manager of Brighton, makes a selection indication before Aston Villa
The head coach of Brighton, Roberto De Zerbi, said that Ansu Fati may be given another chance when the team plays Aston Villa on Saturday at noon.
At 12:30 p.m., Villa will welcome the Seagulls at Villa Park in an effort to win their third straight league game. The third-placed visitors are motivated to maintain their ranking.
Fati, a season-long loanee from Barcelona who landed on the south coast, may get the start. The 20-year-old excelled when called upon against Bournemouth after making his debut off the bench in this month’s 3-1 victory against Manchester United.
He participated for an additional 45 minutes in Wednesday night’s 1-0 loss against Chelsea before being taken off as a precaution. With a trip to Villa in the near future, De Zerbi admitted he did not want to take a chance on being hurt.
“Before the game, I spoke with him, because Ansu played 45 minutes on Sunday against Bournemouth.” stated De Zerbi. “Now, because Ansu didn’t play as many games during the previous era (with Barcelona), I stay in the office with my staff and the medical staff while selecting the starting XI.
If I play him for 90 minutes, 90 minutes, 90 minutes, it’s a big risk for him, for us. After the game I spoke with him and I told him he could play only 45 minutes to be in good condition for Saturday, because on Saturday we have another big game.”
Summer signing Carlos Baleba was handed his debut at Stamford Bridge, but this weekend’s league match may prove too soon for the 19-year-old who is yet adapting to new surroundings.
“The Premier League is stronger and tougher and the new players have to adapt in the difficulties of the game,” De Zerbi added. “He was [born in] 2004 and it was the first game at this level at Stamford Bridge and I am pleased for his performance.
“Clearly he has to improve and progress. Maybe now he is not so ready to play in first XI.”
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