This match preview carries a unique emotional weight, immersed in the atmosphere of mourning and remembrance for Miquel Contestí. The longest-serving president in the history of Mallorca passed away just two days ago at the age of 92, and he will surely watch over his Real Mallorca from above during this pivotal match. Today’s game is deemed crucial, worth six points: three for a win and three lost for the opponent. Jagoba Arrasate’s team, currently on 18 points, aims to extend their four-game unbeaten streak, which includes one victory and three draws, and to assert their position above the relegation zone that Girona, with 15 points, currently occupies.
A minute of silence will precede the match in honor of Miquel Contestí, who, in life, did not receive the tribute he rightfully deserved. However, today he will feel the warmth of the Mallorcan supporters, particularly the veterans who remain eternally grateful for his efforts to rescue the club from the brink of disappearance. The club has announced the suspension of all pre-match activities scheduled in light of the upcoming Three Kings Day festivities.
Contestí’s tenure saw the Girona team as a less frequent visitor to the First Division. In contrast, the current Girona squad under Míchel has made significant strides, boasting four consecutive seasons in the top division, including participation in the Champions League. However, they arrive at Son Moix today under pressure, fighting to avoid relegation.
Today’s fixture holds special significance for Mallorca, as they seek to dedicate a victory to Contestí, a win that could help propel them forward. After a sluggish start to the season, collecting only two points from the first 18, the Balearic team has picked up momentum, amassing 10 points in the subsequent six matches. Arrasate has shifted the team’s strategy from a five-man defense to a more recognizable 4-2-3-1 formation, resulting in improved performances.
With Contestí’s spirit guiding them, the team is set to field its strongest eleven, leaving nothing to chance. For the first time in a long time, Arrasate has all players available for selection. Although he has kept his starting lineup under wraps during the week, all indications suggest a familiar starting squad with Takuma Asano and Sergi Darder playing key roles behind the hopeful goal scorer Vedat Muriqi, who enters the match with nine goals and seeks to score at home against Girona after failing to find the net in previous encounters.
The Mallorca side has shown resilience at Son Moix this season, with only one home defeat (a 0-3 loss to Barcelona in mid-August) and alternating wins and draws in their last five home matches, setting the stage for today’s potential results.
Today is different. It marks the first game without Miquel Contestí present in body, but his soul and deep connection to the club will resonate throughout Son Moix. Alongside the minute of silence, there will be public recognition, including calls of “Contestí, Contestí, Contestí!” after the silence, and a dedication book initiated by the Moviment Mallorquinista that will be delivered to his family at the stadium’s café. Today is indeed a day imbued with special significance and collective remembrance for the Mallorca family.