RCD Espanyol coach Manolo González has demanded a perfect start from his team against Sevilla FC this Sunday at 21:00. The manager, who is overseeing his 100th match in charge of the pericos, knows his side cannot afford a poor opening like in their recent defeats. Sevilla arrives at the RCDE Stadium sitting eighth in La Liga, with six points from three games and a record of two wins and one loss.
As reported by Mundo Deportivo, González was clear in his pre-match press conference. "You have to come out flying from the first minute," stated the coach. His analysis is direct: the early mistakes against Real Madrid and Real Sociedad, which ended in defeat, cannot be repeated. Sevilla, with six goals scored and five conceded this season, is an opponent that punishes any lapse in concentration.
Why is the first minute so vital?
The Espanyol manager identified the start of the match as the key factor. "We have to start the game well and not do it from behind, as happened to us against Real Madrid and Real Sociedad," González explained. His team has only three points after the opening win against Levante (3-0) and two narrow losses (1-2 and 2-1). Failing to find advantages during periods of dominance, as happened against Real Sociedad, was their biggest mistake.
With the clear objective of moving away from the relegation places as soon as possible, every point is valuable. Sevilla, who are three points behind leaders Barcelona, will not be an easy opponent. Espanyol, which made many signings this summer, seeks the solidity of having two players per position. González expressed satisfaction with the transfer window and believes the team will be stronger when everyone is available.
How is Espanyol handling absentees?
The perico squad is managing several situations. Bryan Zaragoza will be in the matchday squad for the game, although the coach clarified he needs minutes to gain rhythm. On the other hand, Javi Puado will not be rushed. He is returning from a long and complicated injury, and his comeback is expected after the next international break. Meanwhile, Sevilla also has a confirmed absence: Rubén Vargas is currently sidelined.
The squad's depth will be tested in a busy schedule. After the clash with the Andalusian side, Espanyol will host Valencia on September 11th. Los che, who occupy 18th place, will be another challenge at home. Fans can check the full schedule on the club's fixtures page.
What is Sevilla's current form?
The visiting team arrives with better momentum than their rival. Their six points place them in the upper-middle section of the standings, showing a positive results streak (LWW). Their attack has functioned, but their defense has conceded five goals. This duel is an opportunity for Espanyol to stop a direct rival and secure a win that could propel them forward.
Manolo González trusts the work done during the week and the competitiveness of his squad. Sunday's match is a crucial test for a project that wants to establish itself in the top flight. Detailed information on the lineup and latest updates will be available in the squad section. Espanyol has a lot at stake against a Sevilla side that wants to continue climbing the table.
The match will be played on Sunday at nine p.m. at the RCDE Stadium, corresponding to the fourth matchday of La Liga.
