Real Oviedo sharpens focus in second pre-season week

Real Oviedo is deep into its second pre-season week with a clear goal: fine-tuning before the first friendly of the season. On Wednesday, July 16, 2026, the azulcarbayones will face Saudi side Al-Qadsiah FC in Girona in a crucial early test for Abelardo Fernández’s squad.

The players completed another training session at El Requexón’s pitch n°4 on July 13, 2026. The two-hour session included intense tactical drills and physical work under the watchful eye of Abelardo Fernández and his coaching staff. Alexandru Isfan’s debut stood out, though the Romanian forward did not feature in the internal scrimmages.

Luka Ilic still sidelined by injury

Serbian midfielder Luka Ilic remains out after picking up a knock during Thursday’s training. Four days later, he is still unable to train with the group, and his recovery is taking longer than expected. Meanwhile, the team continues to advance its tactical work, especially in the final stretch of pre-season.

Isfan, the club’s eighth signing, was welcomed by Paraschiv during his first session with the group. The Romanian forward completed most tasks without issue, though he has yet to make his debut in a match. The coaching staff is assessing his adaptation to the team’s rhythm ahead of a possible inclusion in the Girona friendly.

Calero tightens tactical focus ahead of friendly

Abelardo Fernández is building the defensive and attacking structure with grueling sessions at El Requexón. The Asturian manager is pushing pressing and transition drills, key to the style he wants to implement this season. The squad of 29 players called for pre-season includes keepers Aarón Escandell and Miguel Narváez, defenders Nacho Vidal and Rahim, midfielders Alberto Reina and Youness Lachhab, and forwards Ilyas Chaira and Pablo Senz.

Trip to Girona and return after the friendly

Real Oviedo will travel to Girona on Tuesday, July 15, 2026. After training early at El Requexón, the team will stay overnight before facing Al-Qadsiah FC the next day. The friendly won’t be broadcast on TV, so fans will need to follow via the club’s official channels.

After the match, the team returns to Oviedo to continue preparations for the LaLiga opener. The squad is fine-tuning details, but optimism is building ahead of the season’s official kickoff.