Girona manager Michel Sanchez hospitalised, to miss crucial Villarreal fixture

Girona manager Michel Sanchez hospitalised, to miss crucial Villarreal fixture

Girona coach Michel Sanchez will be absent from the touchline for Saturday's vital LaLiga fixture against Villarreal after being hospitalised due to an undisclosed health issue, the club confirmed.

In a statement, the Catalan side provided reassurance regarding the 49-year-old's condition, indicating that he is stable and under medical supervision.

"Míchel is in hospital with a health problem," the club's official communication read. "He is receiving medical attention and evolving favourably. He will not be on the bench for the game at Montilivi."

Míchel later addressed supporters directly with a message of reassurance, clarifying that while the issue is not serious, he has been instructed to rest.

"I have to stop for a few days and recover in order to return as soon as possible," he said. "I feel good and am under medical observation. Unfortunately, I have to remain in hospital for a few days and will have to follow Saturday's match from afar."

Despite his absence, the coach expressed full confidence in his staff and players to deliver a strong performance.

"I will be in contact with the team. I'm sure this group, despite my absence, will give everything - as always - to make our supporters proud."

The timing of Míchel's absence comes at a critical juncture in Girona's season. Following a remarkable third-place finish last year and participation in this season's UEFA Champions League, the club now finds itself in a relegation battle.

A run of 11 consecutive winless matches saw Girona drop to 17th in the LaLiga standings. However, a narrow 1â-0 win over Mallorca on Monday has given them a six-point buffer above the relegation zone with four matches remaining.

Girona currently sit on 38 points, six ahead of Las Palmas, who occupy the final relegation position. After hosting Villarreal, the team will face already-relegated Real Valladolid on Tuesday, before concluding their campaign with matches against Real Sociedad and Atletico Madrid.

READ MORE: Vincent Kompany reflects on demanding season after winning Bundesliga in debut campaign