Given the current dynamics of the team, it is impossible to ignore the historic significance of Cádiz CF’s trips to Santander. In football, it’s frequently the case that although every player is treated fairly, some are given more consideration and care than others. This is the exact circumstance that Cádiz CF is in under the direction of Gaizka Garitano, who, after two months in charge, is closely monitoring a few important members of his team to guarantee optimal engagement.

Garitano’s tactical style was superbly displayed in the recent game against Cartagena, which concluded in a decisive 5-2 victory. When Cartagena scored two penalties, the scoreline narrowed considerably, briefly upending the team’s intentions. Garitano had to give the game his all, and after De la Rosa scored the fourth goal, the tide turned in Cádiz’s favor.

But with the score at 4-2, Garitano took five minutes to make a vital move that was necessary considering the importance of the game. In keeping with his conservative approach, he substituted Joseba Zaldua with Iza Carcelén in the 83rd minute. Garitano chose a zero-risk approach while monitoring upcoming games because of the significant chance that Iza would be given a yellow card on the talented field, which would result in a suspension because of accrued bookings.

Garitano understands the significance of Iza and ten other players to start the game at El Sardinero as Cádiz CF gets ready to take on Racing de Santander, the current leaders in the Segunda División. With 1,674 minutes, Iza is third in terms of total playing time this season, only surpassed by David Gil (2,160 minutes) and Víctor Chust (2,296 minutes).