Manolo González Threatens Serious Action if Team Doesn’t Excel Tomorrow
In anticipation of their Copa del Rey debut, Espanyol aims for a strong performance against Atlètic Lleida. The match takes place tomorrow. Coach Manolo González emphasizes the importance of the game. He warns against complacency after last year’s first-round elimination by Barbastro.
Match Overview: Espanyol vs. Atlètic Lleida
The upcoming match holds significance for both teams. Espanyol, celebrating their 125th anniversary, seeks to build on this milestone with a solid performance. Atlètic Lleida, competing in Segunda RFEF, presents a challenging opponent. This is their first encounter with Espanyol this season.
Preparation and Expectations
- Manolo González intends to rotate his squad
- Emphasizes the need for seriousness and focus
- Last year’s disappointment serves as a reminder
“As a team, we have much work ahead of us,” González said. He expressed confidence in the players who have not seen regular time on the pitch. He believes the Copa represents an opportunity for them to prove their worth.
Key Players to Watch
Fortuño is highlighted as a key player who will definitely start. González is optimistic about his future in the team. “The Copa is a chance for him to showcase his skills throughout the tournament,” he stated.
In contrast, team dynamics will focus on incorporating promising talents from the youth squad. Gonzalez aims to ensure that selections reflect merit based on performance.
Challenges Ahead
The coach acknowledges the capability of Atlètic Lleida. “They are not to be underestimated,” he warned. He pointed out that teams from lower divisions often play with high motivation, making them dangerous opponents.
“If we do not compete at the level we do in La Liga, I will be very disappointed,” he reiterated.
Looking Toward Future Goals
Looking ahead, Gonzalez is determined to balance Copa ambitions and league objectives. He aims for rapid points accumulation in La Liga while pursuing a successful Copa campaign.
“We want both Europa and the Copa,” he asserted. “Achieving either is a massive undertaking that demands consistent performance.”
As the team gears up for tomorrow’s match, the emphasis remains clear: compete fiercely and seize every opportunity to advance in the tournament.
