Espanyol Dismiss Manolo Gonzalez After Shock Copa del Rey Defeat to Fourth-Tier Sestao

Espanyol have ended their relationship with head coach Manolo Gonzalez after an unexpected 4-3 loss in the Copa del Rey to fourth-division side Sestao River Club. The Catalan club announced the decision on Tuesday, marking the defeat as the breaking point for the management.

Embarrassing Loss Spurs Swift Action

The La Liga team’s elimination in extra time to a lower-tier opponent shocked Spanish football circles. Gonzalez faced heavy pressure going into the match, openly admitting his job was at risk. The defeat made his exit almost certain, prompting the board to act immediately after the final whistle.

Gonzalez’s spell lasted several seasons, during which he managed 107 official matches at the RCDE Stadium. Despite earlier successes and stability in Spain’s top flight, this campaign’s struggles led to a dramatic end.

Club Acknowledges Coach’s Contributions

RCD Espanyol issued a statement expressing gratitude for Gonzalez’s dedication and professionalism. They highlighted his personal and professional impact on the team throughout his tenure. The club’s message read:

“RCD Espanyol, on behalf of club president Alan Pace and its Board of Directors, thank Manolo González for his commitment, effort, and the professionalism he showed since taking charge of the first team. We appreciate how he handled various sporting challenges. We wish him success in his future endeavors.”

Gonzalez Accepts Responsibility for Defeat

After the cup exit, an emotional Gonzalez took full blame for the result, calling it one of the darkest days of his career. His honesty suggested awareness that his time as manager was ending after such a heavy setback against lesser opposition.

“I’m feeling really down, completely shattered, and bearing the full weight of responsibility for everything. It’s one of the worst days of my life, without a doubt,” Gonzalez said.

Relegation Threat Mounts as Espanyol Struggles Continue

The timing of Gonzalez’s dismissal coincides with Espanyol’s difficult position in La Liga. The club has lost four of its last five league games and now sits 18th with only eight points, placing them inside the relegation zone. The risk of dropping to the Segunda Division grows clearer each week.

The search for a new manager begins immediately as Espanyol prepares to face Villarreal in a vital league match this Friday.

• Next Matches:
• LaLiga: Villarreal vs. Espanyol – 30 Oct 2026, 22:00
• Segunda Federación: Espanyol B vs. Sestao – 01 Nov 2026, 18:00