Monchi reaffirms backing for Manolo González and urges patient progress at Espanyol

Monchi continues to back Manolo González and has outlined his vision for Espanyol: build a solid project, progress step by step and use the club’s identity to attract players who might otherwise be beyond its reach. He has rejected suggestions that González’s position as coach was under threat after defeats to Rayo Vallecano and Elche.

Monchi says his priority after the loss to Elche was not to consider a change of coach. “My only objective, once the match against Elche had ended, was to be by the coach’s side, listen to him and try to help in whatever way I thought useful,” he said. He added that his backing for González has remained unchanged since their first meeting.

That support is part of a broader ambition. Monchi believes Espanyol should move towards the upper reaches of La Liga, but says that progress depends on building solid foundations. He points to the experience he gained during his years at Sevilla: “When you build, you have to go floor by floor.” A poorly built structure, he added, will eventually collapse. In his view, this is neither a conservative, negative nor pessimistic message, but one grounded in objectivity and the experience he believes he has.

Espanyol’s identity is also among the tools he hopes to use in recruitment. “The Espanyol brand is a strong brand,” he said, pointing to its history, stadium, supporters and city. The recognition of the club’s sporting department, he believes, can add to that appeal.

Monchi also wants to make Espanyol stronger on and off the pitch. He understands the supporters’ strong attachment to the derby, but believes they would prefer a good season and a good league position, even if that meant losing the derbies. “When a club and a team grow, the distances get shorter,” he said. His message remains consistent: keep González in place and build patiently rather than rush the club’s ambitions.