The Nasrid side could face elimination in the tournament even if it wins the match by three goals to none.
Arosa SC plans to file a formal complaint against Granada for an improper alignment of goalkeeper Adri López in the match held on Thursday, November 2, during the Copa del Rey 2023-24.
In the first round of the knockout tournament, the Nasrid team faced a Tercera RFEF club and, while it was expected that they would advance with a 0-3 victory, the presence of Adri López could force the team’s exclusion from the competition due to an alleged misalignment.
Live coverage of Arosa SC versus Granada in the Copa del Rey 2023-24 will be followed as the match unfolds.
Granada misalignment allegations involving goalkeeper Adri López in the Copa del Rey 2023-24
According to regulations from the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), Adri López is over 23 years old and plays for Recreativo Granada. He cannot participate in the cup since it is classified as a non-professional tournament. If Arosa proceeds with a complaint, Granada could face elimination due to misalignment.
The use of Adri López runs counter to RFEF rules because he is a goalkeeper older than 23 and is registered with the B team, Recreativo Granada, which competes in a non-professional context like the Copa del Rey.
The competition rules clearly state that the Copa del Rey is not a professional championship. The King’s Cup, the Spanish Super Cup, and the Federation Cup are official state-level competitions that are non-professional in character, with ownership and administration under the Royal Spanish Football Federation.
Granada’s lineup in LaLiga would be valid, but not in the knockout tournament. Curiously, Granada faced a similar risk in the previous season when Adri López, also the Copa del Rey goalkeeper, played in both encounters while over the age limit. In that instance, no sanction followed because no complaint was filed. Arosa has confirmed it will file a formal complaint with the authorities.
A defeat that could prove strategically costly
On the field, Granada defeated Arosa 0-3, with goals from José Callejón, Shon Weissman, and Famara Diédhiou.
Arosa is preparing a formal report
The president of Arosa stated in interviews that the club would pursue legal action against Granada. He said, “We must defend the club. If there is an incorrect position, we will raise the issue.” He added that the case has parallels with a prior incident involving Cheryshev and Real Madrid, underscoring the importance of adhering to competition rules. The club expects the situation to be clarified and emphasized that a successful appeal could have significant implications for their campaign and finances.
Looking ahead, the club remains hopeful and committed to competing at a high level while ensuring the rules are respected. The clash already produced a memorable moment for the fans and contributes to a broader discussion about eligibility in cup competitions and the interpretation of age and registration rules across different tiers of Spanish football.