It was a mixed bag for Bayern Munich’s loan army this week, with Bryan Zaragoza stealing the headlines in Spain while Daniel Peretz’s English adventure got off to a rocky start.
Zaragoza Stars in Spain
The standout performer was undoubtedly Bryan Zaragoza. The winger capped a fine week with a Man of the Match display for Celta Vigo in a 3-0 win over Rayo Vallecano. Zaragoza won and converted a penalty, tested the keeper throughout, and battled ferociously, winning a match high nine duels. His dynamism is proving a real asset as Celta climb the table.
German Bundesliga Battles
In Germany, it was a tale of two keepers. Alexander Nübel experienced the full spectrum at Stuttgart. He conceded an early goal but made crucial late saves to secure a 3-2 win over Frankfurt, only to then be beaten by Union Berlin’s first shot on target in an eventual 1-1 draw.
Elsewhere, Arijon Ibrahimović (Heidenheim) and Armindo Sieb (Mainz) faced off directly. Sieb’s Mainz came out on top 3-2, though both youngsters had quiet games. Ibrahimović showed his creative side with four key passes in a subsequent draw with Wolfsburg, while Sieb was left ruing a big missed chance in a narrow defeat to Köln.
Mixed Fortunes in England
The English chapters were less positive. Daniel Peretz’s Championship debut for Southampton ended in a 2-1 home loss to Hull. The Israeli keeper could do little about the goals but will want more protection.
João Palhinha was a surprising absentee from Tottenham’s matchday squad entirely for their loss to West Ham, raising questions. Jonah Kusi Asare had a forgettable eight minute cameo for Fulham, coming on at 0-0 only to see his side concede a late winner and pick up a yellow card in a frantic finish.
Swiss Struggles
Over in Switzerland, Lovro Zvonarek and Grasshopper were well beaten 3-1 by league leaders Thun. The midfielder struggled to influence the game, completing just 53% of his passes in a disappointing return from the winter break.
The Verdict
Zaragoza’s flourishing form is the major positive for Bayern’s decision-makers. Nübel remains a reliable presence, but the other loanees had weeks defined by frustration or inactivity. All eyes will be on whether Peretz can bounce back and if Palhinha’s situation at Spurs clarifies in the days ahead.
