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Having joined the first team due to the injury of the starting goalkeeper—previously Pacheco and now Dmitrovic—homegrown talent Ángel Fortuño has firmly established himself in the squad. “I have been here my whole life for this,” he acknowledged after the match.
Saturday’s encounter at the RCDE Stadium was marked by a series of symbolic moments both on and off the pitch. In the stands, the usual hierarchy was momentarily reshuffled as the club’s president for the day, Alan Pace, chose not to occupy the most prestigious seat. Instead, he passed it on to Francisco Perelló, honoring his 75 years as an Espanyol member. Perelló carries a family legacy tied deeply to the club, being the son of a former president, grandson of a treasurer, and brother of a vice president who led the stadium’s construction.
Defensive Adjustments and Fortuño’s Breakthrough
On the field, tactical changes saw Vanja Drkusic brought in as a third central defender during the final quarter of the game to stifle Atlético de Madrid. However, the most significant narrative was the confirmation of Fortuño’s role as the first-team goalkeeper.
Having been part of Espanyol since the age of seven, progressing through all the youth categories up to the age of 25, Fortuño had previously started only two league matches. His debut came at the end of last season against Real Sociedad, when there was nothing at stake, and the other was a week ago in Málaga, due to back discomfort affecting Marko Dmitrovic.
Although Dmitrovic was fully fit and available to play this Saturday, Fortuño was given the chance to start again, allowing him to feel, for the first time, like the genuine first-team goalkeeper of Espanyol. Reflecting on his performance, Fortuño expressed confidence and satisfaction with his showing, emphasizing his long-standing commitment to the club.
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