Espanyol secured some extent in opposition to Valencia on Tuesday night, drawing them once more nearer to security. Either side rank within the high six when it comes to factors earned in 2025, and each from unlikely positions on the flip of the 12 months.
When the 2 confronted off in December, Los Pericos had been on simply 15 factors and in 18th place, with loads of discuss over whether or not Manolo Gonzalez could lose his job if outcomes didn’t choose up. That was after 17 video games, and after an excellent run in current months, now have 39 factors in simply 32 video games, growing their tally by 24 factors in in two much less video games. With six video games to go, Los Pericos doubtless solely want just a few extra factors to safe their security this season.
After securing their level in opposition to Valencia, the often terse Gonzalez broke out his humorous aspect.
“When you advised me I had these factors on the day of the primary leg in opposition to Valencia… I’d sooner have anticipated my hair to develop,” he advised Relevo.
“We had been very brief, and the Christmas break gave us an opportunity to get our bearings. The gamers who arrived in December helped us so much, and the outcomes have improved. The crew environment is vital, and people who aren’t enjoying behave, respect, and contribute once they come on. The group will save us as quickly as doable. I used to be satisfied we had been going to outlive, however the enchancment in these matches is unimaginable.”
Espanyol have simply two defeats to their title in 2025, with six wins and 6 attracts, together with a victory over Actual Madrid and a draw with Atletico Madrid. That has for essentially the most half been primarily based on a strong defence, the saves of Joan Garcia, and a outstanding 11 targets coming from set items this season. Working with the second lowest wage restrict in La Liga, Espanyol will little doubt be delighted they caught with Gonzalez, and delighted together with his work.