The departure of Ounahi, considered the team's most differential player since the start of the season, forces coach Míchel Sánchez to restructure the offensive setup. The club was aware that the attacking midfielder would miss several matches due to his participation in the continental tournament.

The main candidates to fill the central attacking midfield position are the Frenchman Thomas Lemar, the Colombian Yáser Asprilla, and the homegrown player Joel Roca. Míchel must decide whether the loss is compensated collectively or if the chosen player steps up as requested.

Lemar, who has spent more time injured than available, has shown flashes of quality but is far from his best form. He is required to deliver a month of good performance to mitigate the absence. Meanwhile, Asprilla, wearing number 10, has a new opportunity to justify his investment, although pressure and previous lack of response generate skepticism.

The local alternative is Joel Roca, who, despite having a wider profile, could act as a second striker behind Vanat, contributing club loyalty and intensity in pressing. A final option would be to advance Iván Martín to the attacking midfield, but this would create a gap in the pivot alongside Witsel.