Miracles of Europe II: Cradle of Catalonia to worthy contenders, A Girona's Fairytale
The sounds from the Estadio Montivili filled the air as Girona had just qualified for the UEFA Champions League, which would have been impossible to think of a few years ago.
Nestled away in the ancient charm of Girona, Spain's northeastern Catalonia, is a football team that beat the odds and made history in La Liga. A team more used to mid-table results and the odd relegation from the top division, Girona FC made history in the 2023–24 season by starting an incredible journey that resulted in a historic Champions League qualification.
How did they defy the odds and become a contender for some part of the La Liga Season?
Founded in 1902, Girona FC has a rich history entwined with the cultural fabric of the city. They have, however, only sometimes been in the top division of Spanish football. Having only played in La Liga for three seasons until the 2023–2024 season, with their most recent appearance came during a brief stay in 2018–19. While their ascent to fame might have seemed abrupt, the seeds of their success were planted years before.
Girona's administration put in place a long-term plan centered on sustainable expansion after the club was demoted in 2019. The club's academy, which develops new players and forges a strong identity focused on offensive, possession-based football, received funding. The fervent supporters of the city, who yearned for a team that embodied their dynamic cultural essence, connected with this attitude.
It turned out to be a brilliant move when Argentine manager Miguel Angel Sanchez arrived in 2021. Sanchez emphasized tactical discipline and developed a winning mindset in his players. He was well-known for his tactical versatility and ability to motivate young players. He skillfully combined intriguing young players with seasoned veterans like Cristian Stuani
but that was just the beginning...
The 2023–2024 season got off to a great start. By October, they had become the talk of the whole Spain, beating teams and scoring for fun. This was no coincidence, as Sanchez had shown his tactical prowess, which he proved again throughout the season. He used a flexible 4-3-3 formation, with Savio, Daley Blind, Yan Couto, Tsyhankov and Ukrainian hitman Artem Dovbyk all stepping up when it mattered, from scoring to defending
Girona's achievements extended beyond the field. Their little but charming stadium, the Estadi Montilivi, was the scene of a season-long display of unrelenting devotion. Girona supporters are known as "Girondins," and their passionate cries and unshakable faith fed the squad. Girona's stronghold, the Estadi Montilivi, was transformed into a unique environment because to the close ties between the club and the city.
Early in the season, there was skepticism towards Girona's exploits. Experts questioned if they could compete with seasoned giants like Barcelona and Atletico Madrid. They shocked everyone with their level of consistency, however, and defied expectations. Their excellent performances against the bigger teams were complemented by grinding out close victories over mid-table opposition.
The Girona match against Barcelona at the Estadi Montilivi in February proved to be a turning point. Girona defeated the opposition 4-2 in a thrilling match. This was more than a three-point win; it was a declaration of intent. It enhanced their hopes of qualifying for the Champions League and solidified their standing among La Liga's elite. Girona burst into celebration, the enormity of the accomplishment echoing across the city's streets
The season's last several months were an emotional rollercoaster. Girona was still in the running for a Champions League spot, but the pressure increased with each game that went on. Important players had injuries that kept them out of vital games, which tested the depth of the team. But the players' unrelenting passion and Sanchez's tactical brilliance made sure they never lost focus.
Girona needed to defeat a team that was threatened with relegation on the last day of the season in order to qualify for the Champions League. They secured a thrilling 2-1 triumph in the last moments of a difficult match. The city burst into jubilant celebration upon learning that Girona had accomplished the unimaginable.