Explore how Sevilla’s form declined in recent La Liga seasons. From tactical issues to financial missteps, we break down the factors behind their fall.
The Decline of Sevilla: What Went Wrong?
Once one of the most feared and consistent teams in PG Soft Malaysia, Sevilla FC has found itself in a puzzling downward spiral. A club that lifted the UEFA Europa League in 2020 and was a regular top-four contender in La Liga is now grappling with inconsistency, lack of identity, and growing discontent among fans.
So what went wrong?
Sevilla’s decline hasn’t been sudden. It has unfolded through a combination of poor recruitment, managerial instability, tactical confusion, and internal structural problems. This article dissects each layer of Sevilla’s fall from grace in the 2024/25 season.
1. Managerial Instability: A Revolving Door of Tactics
Sevilla’s managerial situation has been anything but stable. Since Julen Lopetegui’s departure, the club has cycled through multiple head coaches, including Jorge Sampaoli (brief second stint), José Luis Mendilibar, and others, each with different tactical blueprints.
- Impact: No tactical continuity, disoriented players
- Consequence: Lack of a clear playing philosophy and constant formation switches
- 2024/25 Reality: Current coach under pressure as results continue to decline
Sevilla’s inability to commit to a long-term footballing vision has left the players confused and underperforming.
2. Transfer Policy Failures
One of the most glaring issues has been Sevilla’s declining success in the transfer market. Once known for shrewd deals (think Dani Alves, Ivan Rakitić, and Jules Koundé), Sevilla’s recent business has been poor.
Examples of transfer mishaps:
- Overpaying for players past their peak
- Signing injury-prone players
- Failing to replace stars like Diego Carlos and Koundé with equal talent
Sporting director Monchi’s departure in 2023 (after years of excellence) marked a turning point. The club has lacked strategic recruitment since, relying on short-term fixes rather than building for the future.
3. Aging Core Squad
While experience is crucial, Sevilla’s squad has aged poorly. Key players such as Jesús Navas, Ivan Rakitić, and Fernando, though legends, are well past their prime.
- Stats highlight: Sevilla has one of the oldest average starting XIs in La Liga
- Result: Slower pressing, defensive lapses, injury-prone midfield
The club failed to refresh the core with younger talent who could step up long-term.
4. Defensive Vulnerability
A hallmark of Sevilla’s success under Lopetegui was a rock-solid defense. But in 2025, defensive instability has been glaring:
- Goal conceded rate: One of the highest in the top half of La Liga
- Set-piece weakness: Numerous goals from corners and indirect free kicks
- No consistent center-back pairing: Frequent changes due to injuries or poor form
This vulnerability has cost them valuable points, especially in tight matches.
5. Midfield Disconnect
Sevilla’s midfield once dictated tempo with elegance and grit. Now, it struggles with both transitions and creativity.
- Lack of a deep-lying playmaker to connect defense and attack
- Outnumbered often in central areas due to poor tactical setup
- Static movement off the ball, leading to predictable attacks
Opponents now find it easier to bypass Sevilla’s midfield and hit on the counter.
6. Fan Discontent and Club Identity Crisis
As results have worsened, fan frustration has grown. The Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán, once a fortress, has become a tense venue filled with whistles and criticism.
There’s also a wider identity crisis at the club:
- Is Sevilla trying to rebuild or compete immediately?
- Is the focus still on youth, or short-term veterans?
- Who is leading the long-term sporting vision?
These unanswered questions add to the club’s malaise.
7. European Distractions and Fatigue
Sevilla’s love affair with the Europa League has been double-edged. While they remain competitive in Europe, it has sometimes come at the cost of domestic form.
- Crowded fixture schedule with a thin squad
- Key players rested in La Liga games for European ties
- Injuries stacking up during critical league fixtures
In 2025, this approach has clearly backfired, as Sevilla is fighting in mid-table rather than pushing for Champions League spots.
Can Sevilla Bounce Back?
History says yes — Sevilla is a club with deep tradition, smart leadership (when functioning), and a passionate fanbase. But the road back to relevance in the league won’t be easy.
Key Areas for Immediate Focus:
- Hire a long-term manager and trust the process
- Revamp recruitment with a focus on youth and athleticism
- Invest in defensive structure and restore confidence
- Build around young stars like Bryan Gil and Juanlu Sánchez
Sevilla needs to rebuild patiently, rediscover its footballing DNA, and resist the urge for short-term fixes.
Final Thoughts: A Warning and a Chance
Sevilla’s decline is a cautionary tale for clubs that lose strategic vision. Once a model of efficiency and identity, the club has stumbled into confusion. But football offers second chances — and for Sevilla, that means making the league a priority again.
With fan support, smart management, and tactical clarity, Sevilla can reemerge as a La Liga powerhouse.
If you believe in Sevilla’s return or love the drama of football’s ups and downs, keep supporting the league. Your voice fuels the game’s passion. Stand by your league.
