Girona star chastised by manager Michel Sanchez as character concerns grow

Dutch forward Arnaut Danjuma was one of the most coveted forwards in Europe after helping lead Villarreal to the Champions League semi-finals, but since, he has had several rocky spells. A loan move to Everton, a return to the Yellow Submarine, and now at Girona, his character has been called into question.

Danjuma became persona non grata at Villarreal after a bust-up with captain Raul Albiol, with the former laughin in the veteran’s face during a training session. He managed to patch things up with manager Marcelino Garcia Toral, but seeking guaranteed minutes, moved on loan to Girona.

However Michel Sanchez was not feeling the love for him during his return to La Ceramica, during which he was subbed off at half-time.

“He was not good, I think he is not connected with the team, with his teammates, he wants to do the best but starts from the individual perspective and not the collective. I need him to be thinking about the collective first, because if not it is difficult because he has to take the ball and win everything himself and always do his thing, and no. I need more of him collectively,” he told Relevo.

Danjuma has made 18 appearances this season, three of which for Villarreal, during which he scored his two goals. For the Blanc-i-Vermells, Danjuma has contributed two assists, but has struggled to replicate his best for Michel’s team, which has been hamstrung by injuries. Going forward it will be interesting to see if Michel maintains faith in him.