Survival sealed but Zaragoza fans demand answers | OneFootball

Real Zaragoza secured their place in the Segunda División for another season with a hard-fought 1-0 win over Deportivo de La Coruña at La Romareda, yet the aftermath was tinged with both relief and an undercurrent of frustration from the crowd.

The contest’s decisive moment came shortly after the break, when a Raúl Guti corner was turned into his own net by Deportivo’s Charlie Patino, sparking tension-filled celebrations in a full stadium. Zaragoza’s task was clear – three points were required to guarantee safety, but so was a watchful eye on events elsewhere. Eldense, direct rivals in the relegation scrap, twice took the lead during their match, testing nerves among fans and players. Relief only truly arrived when news filtered through of late goals by Racing de Santander, confirming Zaragoza’s survival.

Despite the win, nerves hardly settled during the closing half an hour as Deportivo, safe from relegation, continued to challenge. Yeremay Hernández struck the crossbar for the visitors, but Zaragoza managed to hold out.

The match’s significance was heightened as the last to be played before the redevelopment of La Romareda. Yet the mood at the stadium was not wholly celebratory; after the whistle, fans voiced discontent towards the club’s leadership, calling for changes after what many considered an underwhelming campaign, even with survival achieved.

On the pitch, Zaragoza had to cope with enforced changes, the absence of Lluis López through injury leading to starts for Luna and Vital, while Guti and Dani Gómez also returned to the line-up.

In the post-match reflections, head coach Gabi emphasised the result’s importance, admitting “it was a very important victory.” He stopped short of discussing personal plans, though recent statements have made clear his wish for the club to commit to a comprehensive sporting rebuild if he is to remain at the helm.

Midfielder Raúl Guti also highlighted the collective effort, stating: “This team has shown it fights and is united.” His comments echo a sentiment widespread within the squad regarding the resilience needed to overcome the season’s difficulties.

Academy product Francho Serrano, meanwhile, underlined the critical role supporters have played throughout, declaring, “Real Zaragoza is nothing without its people.” Serrano’s own bond with the club was made official with the announcement of his contract renewal until 2030, an emotional moment for both player and fans, especially during the farewell to the old ground.

With the dust settling on a fraught campaign, Zaragoza’s future direction will depend on decisions in the coming weeks—both in leadership and on the pitch. For now, survival offers breathing space, if not full satisfaction, as the club readies itself for an extensive summer of change.

Source: Real Zaragoza, Diario AS, Heraldo de Aragón, Aragón Deporte, Aragón Digital, El Periódico de Aragón