Espanyol's interim coach, Sergio García, has appeared before the press with the firm intention of leading the team to victory against Villarreal this Friday. Following the club's elimination from the Copa del Norte by Sestao, García has taken over as manager of La Cerámica's visiting bench while the club awaits the definitive arrival of Eder Sarabia and the departure of Manolo González. In his first interview, the former club player emphasized that his main objective is to “serve Espanyol” and that, although his position is provisional, he is willing to take advantage of any opportunity that comes his way.
In the training session after the elimination, García explained that preparation was limited by the need to recover several players. “We haven't been able to work much because we did recovery for many players,” he commented, adding that between today's training and the video session we will try to provide the squad with information on how to attack Villarreal. Despite the negative streak, the coach highlighted the maturity of the group: "When they are in a streak like this it is difficult. But they are mature people who know how this football thing goes and in the end and after speaking they already seemed animated, wanting to play a great game against Villarreal."
The message from Monchi, the sports director, was also reflected in García's position. "The club and I go hand in hand. I understand that the club has looked for another coach because it is early. I am here to serve the club. If it had happened, I would have been there, but I am delighted to be in B, to continue growing, and if at some point the opportunity comes to me, then I will take advantage of it," he stated. He has not yet had direct contact with Sarabia, but he fully trusts in the sports management and the preparation that the new coach will bring to the team.
Regarding the match, García showed total confidence in the squad. "I don't know if people can think that there is no game tomorrow, but I am very convinced that we can get the three points. Villarreal plays very good football, but I trust our squad. We will have to play an almost perfect game and make them not feel comfortable in their game," he said. The excitement of returning to coach Espanyol is evident in his statement: "I am excited to be able to train and if it is here much better. I said at the time that I would love to return, I have returned and I am excited and looking forward to game time."
Finally, García closed with a message addressed to the fans: "As I have been a player, I would like us all to be on the same side. Espanyol is great, the fans too and they are always with us. Together we will take Espanyol where it deserves, which is much higher." With the game against Villarreal as the first challenge under his command, the blue and white team seeks to regain confidence and demonstrate that, despite changes in direction, passion and commitment remain intact.