El Espanyol, which showcased exceptional prowess in the initial half of the season by triumphing over the rojiblancos in the opening match, has yet to secure a victory in 2026. The team arrives at the venue where it once suffered a heavy 4-0 defeat against Barcelona, yet a faint glimmer of optimism is emerging.
Despite the absence of key players such as Joan García, Kumbulla, and Puado—the latter sidelined due to injury—and with only minor adjustments rather than high-profile signings or star reinforcements, the current state of Espanyol is remarkable. Should a devoted Perico awaken from a nine-month slumber, which began after the club secured its safety on the final day of the previous Liga season, he would likely be astonished to find his team positioned sixth rather than languishing near the relegation zone.
Espanyol’s Unexpected Rise Amidst Challenges
Indeed, the black-and-white reality paints a different picture: Espanyol stands firmly out of the relegation red zone, defying expectations. Under the leadership of Manolo González, the squad has climbed to sixth place, a position that surpasses the anxieties of battling to stay afloat.
Meanwhile, they face an imposing opponent in Atlético de Madrid, a club perched precariously at the edge of the coveted Champions League spots. The proximity of these elite positions contrasts sharply with the distant threat posed by the teams struggling to avoid relegation to Segunda. This looming challenge underscores the significance of the upcoming fixture for both sides.