Features
JUE 04.02.2016
The turn of the year heralds fresh hope in Palma de Mallorca. Two and a half weeks ago, on 18 January, RCD Mallorca decided to pull an about turn. The team were stuck in 19th place in the Liga Adelante and the club staked the rest of the season on the ability of Fernando Vazquez to take over in the dugout and reverse the club's fortunes.
Two matches on, with victories over both AD Alcorcon and SD Ponferradina, the outlook on the island has changed completely. However, this cannot be attributed entirely to the ‘Vazquez effect’. Hopes have also been fuelled by the signings made during the winter transfer window: Lago Junior, Alfredo Ortuño, Diogo Salomao, Pol Roige and Adrian Colunga.
A dream front line
Mallorca's recent reinforcements have transformed them into a side which can aim high. The incorporations during the winter transfer window have significantly strengthened their attacking arsenal, with the arrival of players who are proven goalscorers.
The latest addition to the squad is Oscar Diaz, who netted seven goals for CD Numancia in the first half of the season. The Madrilenian returns to the place he called home eight years ago intent on forming a lethal partnership with Ortuño. The Murcia-born striker is another of the newcomers, arriving off the back of a seven-goal haul with Real Zaragoza. The firing squad is completed by Brandon, the young promise who recently extended his contract, and the experienced Colunga, one of the first winter acquisitions.
Quality and spark on both flanks
Although he can also play as a striker, Lago Junior looks destined to become Vazquez’s go-to man on the right wing. Out wide, the Ivorian is able to make the very most of his pace and dribbling ability. On the opposite flank, Salomao and Roige have brought in that extra bit of quality.
The 'all-new' Mallorca side are set to take on Bilbao Athletic at 17:00 on Sunday at the Iberostar. Will Vazquez make it three wins out of three?
© LALIGA - 2016