The list of absentees for CD Tenerife's match this Saturday against Mérida at the Romano José Fouto stadium has been reduced to five players. Four of them, Marc Mateu, Javi Pérez, Nacho Gil, and Alassan, are injured, while Gastón Valles will be out due to accumulated yellow cards. Cervera described the week as "normal, without incidents" after Friday's training session.
The coach was clear about Nacho Gil's condition, noting that his return to the field will not be in the short term. He explained that doctors set a six-week recovery period, and the player is currently in his fourth week. "One thing is to recover, and another is to play," Cervera added. A similar situation is faced by Javi Pérez, with the added inconvenience that he has not competed since October, prolonging his inactivity.
“"They told us he would be out for six weeks, and this is the fourth, so I don't see his return as imminent because one thing is to recover, and another is to play."
Alassan's case is particularly delicate. The footballer underwent surgery this week for a ruptured patellar tendon in his right knee, which will keep him out of competition for six to eight months. Cervera described the injury as "serious" and highlighted the importance of this tendon for an athlete. The coach, who also suffered a similar injury, was able to communicate with Alassan via message, confirming that the player is in good spirits and that the club will provide him with all necessary support, including a one-year contract extension.
“"His injury is serious. When the match (against Cacereño) ended, they told me his kneecap had dislocated, then reset, and he was pain-free, but later we were informed that his patellar tendon was ruptured, and that is serious; for a footballer, that tendon is very important."
Regarding the upcoming match, Cervera highlighted Mérida as one of the teams that "play best" in Primera RFEF, despite their previous defeat at Heliodoro. He emphasized Mérida's attractive playing style, influenced by the Real Madrid school, and their strong home performance, although their away results are more inconsistent. The coach anticipated a match where speed will be a key factor, always accompanied by quality.
