Szczęsny: Likely his last LaLiga game, with Joan García set to return after the international break. The Pole finished with mixed feelings—happy for the win but disappointed to concede again. His run has been underwhelming, as he hasn’t managed a single clean sheet.
Eric: Outstanding display from the defender, who once again showed his versatility wherever he plays. Not even the protective mask stopped him from producing a near-perfect performance, this time on the right flank. His commitment is proving crucial for the team right now.
Araújo: Again caught out in both of Celta’s goals. Still, he improved after halftime and made fewer mistakes. Struggled badly to contain Borja Iglesias. Clearly not at his best.
Cubarsí: Endured a tough night against Celta’s attacks, especially in the first half, where he looked overwhelmed at times. Fortunately, the team was much more organized after the break, which helped him settle and perform better.
Balde: A strong performance from the academy product, who was the team’s best outlet in the first half for playing out from the back. Powerful down the left side. More problems defensively, but made up for them with effort and energy.
Frenkie: Absolutely phenomenal in every sense. Dominated possession and dictated the rhythm with exceptional intelligence, always available and providing solutions. The only blemish was his second yellow card and subsequent sending-off, meaning he’ll miss the Athletic game in two weeks.
Olmo: Started in place of Casadó, who was injured during warm-up. Grew into the game steadily. Found good pockets of space and linked well with teammates, though his finishing remains inconsistent.
Fermín: Outstanding. Right now, the most in-form player in the squad. Everything he does, he does well. His natural talent combined with tireless work ethic makes him a complete player. A shot of his led to a handball by Marcos Alonso and a penalty. Recovered countless balls. A true lifesaver for the team.
Lamine Yamal: Didn’t quite match his Bruges masterclass, but came close. Scored a great goal and hit the post. Rarely lost the ball, and crucially, put in real defensive work to help Eric. His pubalgia issues seem further behind him every day.
Lewandowski: The Polish forward is something else. At 37, the goals keep coming. A month after his last start, he returned to the lineup with a sensational hat trick—the first from the penalty spot (with a bit of luck), the second after a brilliant Rashford assist, and the third with a powerful header. He’s now up to seven league goals, and Mbappé isn’t far ahead.
Rashford: Two assists and a shot off the post sum up the Englishman’s performance in Vigo. His presence on the left wing is finally starting to make sense. Mingueza paid the price, not returning for the second half.
Substitutes
Christensen: Came on in the 86th minute and took an elbow to the mouth just two minutes later.
Martín: Stayed alert in marking Bryan Zaragoza.
Ferran: Lively and energetic in his short cameo.
Bernal: Came on mainly to run the clock down.