The goalkeeper will be a substitute despite speaking at the previous press conference, and Sampaoli has opted for Dmitrovic in goal. This decision signals a surprising tactical shift for Sevilla as they prepare for a crucial tie.
Sevilla is set to host the first leg of the UEFA Europa League round of 16 against Fenerbahçe on Thursday, March 9. The match represents an opportunity to break a troubling run of form, yet it comes with the absence of one of their standout players from the starting XI. The focus will be on how the home side adapts without a key contributor as they aim to take an advantage into the second leg.
All details of Sevilla vs. Fenerbahçe in the Europa League can be explored here [Goal].
Why isn’t Bono in the lineup for Sevilla vs. Fenerbahçe in the 2023 Europa League
Coach Jorge Sampaoli surprised many by altering the goalkeeper role, with Yassine Bono not starting as the first-choice against the Turkish side. Marko Dmitrovic takes the gloves, a choice that raises eyebrows given Bono’s regular status in European matches. The decision stands out because Bono has been a regular participant in the European campaigns this season.
Many supporters expected Bono to start after he accompanied Sampaoli during the pre-match press briefing. The official reasoning points to a technical call that outweighed routine selection, with Bono generally involved in the recent warm-up sessions before kick-off.
Launch XI for the Europa League clash ⤵
Dmitrovic – Jesús Navas, Gudelj, Nianzou, Telles, Acuña – Fernando, Rakitic, Oliver Torres, Bryan Gil – En-Nesyri. #WeareSeville #NeverGiveUp pic.twitter.com/aEcYCucRez
— Sevilla Football Club (@SevillaFC) March 9, 2023
Dmitrovic has started 11 matches this season, keeping clean sheets in six of them. That tally is solid, though several of those shutouts came against lower-tier opponents in the Copa del Rey. In European competitions this term, he has featured in three matches, including the away leg against Copenhagen and the return match against PSV, both situations arising when Bono was not fully fit.
From a tactical perspective, Dmitrovic’s inclusion could signal a slightly more conservative approach from Sevilla, prioritizing shot-stopping reliability in a game that could swing on a few key moments. Sampaoli’s lineup choices often reflect a wider game plan, balancing defensive solidity with the capacity to threaten on the break through En-Nesyri and the midfield creators. The matchup against Fenerbahçe will test whether Sevilla can regain momentum ahead of the second leg.
As the tie unfolds, the Sevilla defense will likely rely on the experience of Navas and the central partnership of Gudelj and Nianzou to manage the Turkish attackers. On the flanks, the pace of Telles and Acuña will be critical both in widening Sevilla’s width and in tracking Fenerbahçe’s wing play, while the midfield trio of Fernando, Rakitic, and Oliver Torres will be charged with controlling the tempo and probing for opportunities to open the Turkish defense. The forward line, anchored by En-Nesyri, will look to convert any chances with clinical finishing.
Historically, Bono has been an important presence in European competition for Sevilla, contributing to their consistency and leadership between the posts. This decision to rotate the goalkeeper spot underscores the manager’s willingness to experiment and to optimize the squad across a demanding schedule. For fans and analysts, the move invites close scrutiny of Dmitrovic’s handling of cross balls, command of the box, and communication with a backline that has shown both resilience and vulnerability this season.
Overall, the match carries significant weight for Sevilla as they chase a favorable result before the return leg. The tactical experiment at goal will be a focal point for observers, with attention turning to how Dmitrovic handles the pressure and how the rest of the team supports him in a high-stakes European knockout encounter.
Note: this article relies on available match reports and official communications from Sevilla FC. (Goal)