FC Andorra's Manso Eyes Possession Dominance in Primera RFEF Opener vs Ceuta

FC Andorra faces Ceuta in its Primera RFEF opener on Saturday at 5pm at Encamp Stadium, with coach Carles Manso insisting on an unchanged playing identity despite registration delays for new signings.

Manso, speaking at Friday's pre-match press conference, stressed that the team must remain recognizable from the first minute. After eight friendlies and retaining much of last season's spine, he envisions a squad that controls possession, presses hard after losing the ball, stays proactive in the opponent's half, and adjusts fluidly. "The roadmap is very clear," he said, outlining a style shown in preseason.

The visitors, led by José Juan Romero, kept their associative approach from last year but can switch tactics like a "chameleon." Now bolstered by powerful wingers, Ceuta drew praise from Romero, who called Andorra an "extraordinary team" with a clear idea and "Barça DNA." He predicted the hosts will make significant noise this season. Andorra's staff analyzed two previous encounters to spot weaknesses and threats. Romero noted his side's tough week, including travel issues and Ceuta's migrant situation, but vowed to compete and win.

Only six of 12 new arrivals are registered so far due to Andorra's bureaucracy, especially for foreigners—Manso ruled out fair play issues and urged calm as the club resolves it. Pau López could debut in goal, with Nacho Quintana, Moró Sidibé, and Jordi Cano vying for spots. Julian Rijkhoff, if cleared, brings strong movement, technique, and finishing but must earn his place.

Manso set an initial target of 50 points for survival, then growth without limits. The club seeks disruptive wingers to break low blocks. Absences include injured Gael Alonso, Lautaro de León, and Théo Le Normand. Youngsters Jan Lagunas, Stefan Golubovic, and Tiago Olmedo join first-team training.

A temporary dirt parking lot on Vila road will operate two hours before kickoff until 30 minutes after, at €5—though public transport is recommended.

Probable lineups

FC Andorra: Pau López; Carrique, Alende, Bomba, Martí Vilà; Marc Domènech, Molina, Akman; Moró Sidibé, Nacho Quintana, Jordi Cano. Coach: Carles Manso.

Ceuta: Vallejo; Petxa, Carlos Hernández, Bodiger, Matos; Meléndez, Illescas, Cédric, Abdoul Koné; Kuki Salazar, Omar Sadik. Coach: José Juan Romero.

Referee: Rafael Sánchez (Murcia).