The sporting director of RCD Espanyol, Monchi, addressed the Movistar+ media following the recent dismissal of Manolo González and the incorporation of Eder Sarabia as his replacement. In his speech, Monchi described the decision as “a difficult week” and recalled that “it is almost never pleasant to fire a coach, much less someone with the professional and human value of Manolo.” He expressed his gratitude for the commitment, dedication and affection that the former coach brought to the club, while continuing to emphasize that the measure was taken to safeguard the team's sporting situation.
The announcement came after Espanyol's defeat in the Copa del Rey match against Sestao, where the team's performance was considered "ridiculous." With the departure of González, Monchi announced that Eder Sarabia will take over as technical direction starting from the next match, although the new coach will not be able to be present in the night's match due to a sanction that prevents him from participating in training. Sarabia will lead future training sessions and will be responsible for preparing the team for upcoming matches.
Regarding the call, Monchi explained that, after speaking with Sergio García, coach of Espanyol B, he was given “absolute freedom” to choose the players. The sports director highlighted that the selection of the squad, without Clemens Riedel, Andoni Gorosabel, Urko González de Zárate and Àlex Calatrava, was made with the aim of giving the team a boost. Monchi emphasized that the players must “take a step forward, show pride and desire to overcome the current situation,” and that their goal is to achieve “two victories” to recover points and generate satisfaction among the squad.
The sports director concluded that, from now on, Sarabia will direct the training sessions and be responsible for the team's tactics, although he will not be able to sit on the bench during the next matchday. Monchi made it clear that the decision was made with the intention of improving Espanyol's performance and that the club will continue working to achieve its goals for the season.