Sevilla’s rich European history makes a comeback feel possible. But what must change for the Andalusian club to thrive again in top-tier league and continental competitions?

Can Sevilla Return to European Glory in the Coming Seasons?

Sevilla FC is synonymous with success in Pragmatic Play free football, especially when it comes to the UEFA Europa League. The Andalusian giants have won the competition a record seven times, carving a reputation as a formidable knockout-stage team and a feared name on the continent. Yet, in recent seasons, Sevilla has struggled to maintain that elite status, with disappointing domestic performances and managerial instability hindering their progress.

As the 2024/25 season unfolds, the question lingers: Can Sevilla return to European glory, and if so, how soon? The road back to the pinnacle of European competition won’t be easy, but it’s far from impossible.

Sevilla’s Golden Era in Europe

Sevilla’s European dominance peaked between 2006 and 2023, during which the club won the Europa League seven times — in 2006, 2007, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2020, and most recently, 2023. These successes weren’t flukes. Sevilla mastered the art of European knockout football with a smart scouting network, a well-oiled tactical setup, and a hunger that often outmatched better-resourced opponents.

Players like Éver Banega, Dani Alves, Jesús Navas, and Wissam Ben Yedder became European household names, and coaches such as Unai Emery and Julen Lopetegui were instrumental in engineering those victories.

But that era feels increasingly distant. Since their 2023 Europa League triumph, the club has seen a sharp dip in form.

What Went Wrong?

1. Managerial Instability

Sevilla has had multiple managerial changes in the last few years. Consistency is crucial in building a long-term competitive squad, and constant leadership changes disrupt tactical development and morale.

2. Aging Core

Many of the club’s once-reliable veterans are now past their prime. Players like Ivan Rakitić and Jesús Navas are legends, but over-reliance on older stars has left Sevilla exposed, especially in a fast-paced league and European setup.

3. Decline in Recruitment Efficiency

Sevilla’s sporting director Monchi was lauded for unearthing talents like Jules Koundé and Diego Carlos. However, recent transfer windows have seen more misses than hits, weakening the squad’s competitiveness.

4. Injuries and Squad Depth

A limited bench and frequent injuries to key players have further hindered consistency, forcing managers to field underprepared or misfitting lineups.

A Glimmer of Hope: Signs of a Turnaround?

Despite recent struggles, there are positive indicators suggesting Sevilla could soon climb back up.

1. Emerging Talents

Young players like Dodi Lukébakio, Loïc Badé, and Kike Salas have shown glimpses of quality. Given proper development, they could be pivotal in a rebuilt squad.

2. New Sporting Direction

With Monchi’s departure and a restructuring of the recruitment department, Sevilla appears to be embracing a more modern approach to scouting, data analysis, and player acquisitions.

3. Financial Prudence

While Sevilla can’t compete financially with Real Madrid or Barcelona, their smart transfer model—buy low, sell high—still holds value. The challenge is regaining that edge and executing it with better timing.

Tactical Identity: What Needs to Change?

To return to European success, Sevilla must reinvent their tactical identity. Under Unai Emery and later Lopetegui, the team was known for pressing, midfield control, and aerial dominance in both boxes. Lately, however, Sevilla has looked disorganized and reactive.

Key tactical changes needed include:

• Establishing a settled formation that leverages both experience and youth

• Reasserting control in midfield, with a focus on possession retention

• Improved wide play, especially overlapping fullbacks, which was once their strength

• Better defensive structure, particularly against quick transitions

A manager capable of implementing this identity long-term, backed by the board, is essential.

Can They Compete in the League Again?

In the short term, returning to the UEFA Champions League may be too tall an order unless a miracle run occurs. However, qualification for the Europa League or the new UEFA Conference League is more realistic.

This would allow Sevilla to rebuild confidence in Europe, possibly winning silverware again and attracting better talent.

Clubs like Real Sociedad and Villarreal have shown that smaller squads with smart planning can punch above their weight. Sevilla already has the fanbase, the infrastructure, and the history. What they need is the vision and execution to climb back up the league standings.

The Road Back to Glory: Key Steps Forward

1. Stabilize Management

Stick with a manager for more than one season. A stable dressing room breeds results.

2. Revamp the Squad

Phase out aging stars respectfully, promote youth, and invest in key positions like center-back, creative midfield, and striker.

3. Strengthen Home Form

Sevilla’s fortress, the Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán Stadium, needs to become a nightmare for visiting teams again.

4. Return to Europa League Priorities

While Champions League dreams are natural, Sevilla should aim to dominate the Europa League again, using it as a platform to develop talent and rebuild reputation.

Final Thoughts

Sevilla’s history is far too rich to ignore. They are not just a club that wins European trophies—they are a club built for them. While recent years have brought instability, the potential for a return is real.

With a solid tactical foundation, smart recruitment, and patience from the board and fans, Sevilla can rise again. It may not be immediate, but the groundwork is there for a European resurgence in the near future.

If you’re a fan of passionate football and underdog resurgence stories, Sevilla’s journey back to the top is one to watch. Stand behind your club and show your support as they aim to reclaim their place in Europe and in the league. Let’s bring the glory nights back to the Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán!