Opposition watch: Sevilla pegged back by Celta Vigo
Mendilibar has an experienced squad at his disposal, with on-loan Reds defender Alex Telles, who came off the bench against Celta, at the forefront of a host of recognisable names, which includes ex-Manchester City pair Jesus Navas and Fernando, Erik Lamela – formerly of Tottenham Hotspur – and one-time Barcelona midfielder, Ivan Rakitic.
One of those coming into the side for Friday’s encounter, Pape Gueye, was dismissed after just 19 minutes for a second bookable offence. But Los Rojiblancos continued to battle well, and took the lead on the stroke of half-time through a Youssef En-Nesyri header.
Morocco international En-Nesyri is a man to watch for sure; his opening goal was his 15th of the season, and he might have extended his tally again in the second half, but on that occasion nodded wide of the near post.
