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

Espanyol have ended their relationship with manager Manolo Gonzalez after a stunning 4-3 loss to fourth-tier Sestao River Club in the Copa del Rey. The Catalan club announced the decision on Tuesday, with the cup defeat proving to be the breaking point for the leadership.

Catalan Side Reacts to Cup Humiliation

The La Liga club reached a critical moment after extra time saw them knocked out by Sestao, sending shockwaves across Spanish football. Gonzalez faced intense pressure before the match, openly admitting his position was unstable. Following the defeat, the board swiftly decided to change course and dismissed him immediately after the final whistle.

Gonzalez’s tenure spanned over three seasons, during which he managed 107 official matches. His time at the RCDE Stadium included both highs and lows, having earned respect for keeping the club stable in Spain’s top flight until recent struggles surfaced.

Espanyol Express Gratitude to Departing Manager

The club issued a statement recognizing Gonzalez’s efforts despite recent setbacks. They praised his commitment and professionalism throughout his time in charge.

  • Official statement: "RCD Espanyol have decided to bring Manolo González’s tenure as coach of the club to an end. The two parties part ways after more than three seasons and 107 official games in charge of the first team, a period during which he left his personal and professional mark, both on the pitch and in the team’s day-to-day operations."
  • Club message: "On behalf of club president Alan Pace and the Board of Directors, we express our gratitude to Manolo González for his work, commitment, and effort since taking charge. We value the professionalism and dedication he brought to his role and how he tackled various sporting challenges. We wish him success in his future."

Gonzalez Accepts Responsibility for Defeat

Following the embarrassing exit, Gonzalez appeared emotional and took full responsibility for the team's poor performance. He described the loss as one of the worst moments of his career and recognized that his time as manager was likely ending after such a significant setback against lower league 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 Shadows Espanyol

The timing of Gonzalez’s dismissal is linked closely to Espanyol’s league difficulties. The team has lost four of its last five matches, sliding into the relegation zone. Sitting 18th with just eight points, the risk of dropping back to the Segunda Division looms large for the club. The search for a new head coach starts immediately as Espanyol prepare for an important league game against Villarreal this Friday.

Upcoming Fixtures

  • La Liga: Villarreal vs Espanyol, 30 Oct 2026, 22:00
  • Segunda Federación: Espanyol B vs Sestao, 01 Nov 2026, 18:00

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