Celta Vigo head coach Claudio Giráldez has expressed strong admiration for midfielder Ilaix Moriba, whose recent form has made him an essential figure in the team’s battle to avoid relegation from La Liga.
Speaking ahead of a critical fixture against sixth-placed Real Sociedad, Giráldez was effusive in his praise for the 22-year-old Guinean, who is currently on loan from RB Leipzig. Moriba, who has now started five consecutive league matches, is emerging as a central force in Celta Vigo’s midfield during the most decisive stretch of their season.
“He’s a player who offers us a wealth of options,” said Giráldez during a pre-match press conference. “He’s capable of doing many things, probably our most complete midfielder in terms of versatility.”
Moriba’s contributions have come at a crucial time. Celta Vigo currently sit just above the relegation zone in 17th place, with only three matches remaining to secure their top-flight status.
His recent goal in the vital win over Villarreal underlined his growing influence on both sides of the pitch, a quality his manager clearly values.
“He gives us balance,” Giráldez added. “He can drive the ball forward, operate in a double pivot, or play in a central role in a 4-3-3. He can also cover either flank and is effective in defending set pieces. He’s a very complete player.”
The coach highlighted Moriba’s tactical intelligence and flexibility, particularly during in-game adjustments. In the match against Villarreal, for instance, Moriba began in a deep midfield role but was later pushed further forward to adapt to the evolving demands of the game.
“He was meant to play in the double pivot, but as the match progressed, he ended up operating higher and to the right,” Giráldez explained. “That kind of adaptability is rare and incredibly valuable in the position we’re in.”
The timing of Moriba’s rise is especially significant for a Celta side that has endured an inconsistent campaign. As pressure mounts in the final stages of the season, the midfielder’s ability to provide stability and tactical balance is proving indispensable.
Despite the win over Villarreal, Giráldez admitted that lapses in concentration remain a concern. “We stopped pressing aggressively late in the first half and didn’t defend the back line properly,” he noted. “That’s something we cannot afford against a team like Real Sociedad.”
Still, with Moriba growing into his role and adjusting seamlessly to the tactical demands placed upon him, Celta may have found the midfield engine capable of steering them through turbulent waters.
Signed by Leipzig from Barcelona in 2021, Moriba’s loan spell in Galicia has offered him a chance to rebuild momentum, and he appears to be making the most of it.
His ability to transition quickly between defensive duties and attacking surges has caught the eye not just of his coach but of a fan base hungry for inspiration.
With three fixtures remaining and survival on the line, Claudio Giráldez will be counting on Ilaix Moriba’s versatility, maturity, and technical prowess more than ever.
As Celta aim to preserve their La Liga status, the Guinean midfielder is proving to be one of their most valuable assets.
