Espanyol suffered a shock defeat to the Seto River, and manager Manolo González was officially sacked.

Espanyol announced on Tuesday that they have dismissed Manolo González from his position as manager, effective immediately.

The announcement stated: "On behalf of President Alan Pace and the Board of Directors of RCD Espanyol, we would like to express our sincere gratitude to Manolo González for his work, dedication and efforts since taking charge of the first team."

"The club especially recognizes his professionalism and dedication during his tenure, as well as his hard work in the face of various competitive challenges."

"The club also takes this opportunity to wish Manolo González all the best in his future professional and personal life, and greater success."

As a young and promising Spanish coach, the 47-year-old González has led teams such as Montanesa, Badalona, Ebro, and Santa Uralia in the lower leagues of Spain. Since taking over Espanyol from Luis Miguel Ramis in March 2024, he has accumulated a record of 33 wins, 30 draws, and 44 losses in all competitions, during which time he led the team to return to La Liga and successfully avoid relegation for two consecutive seasons.

However, Espanyol's start to the season has been less than ideal. They currently sit third from bottom in La Liga with a record of 2 wins, 6 draws, and 6 losses, accumulating 8 points. In today's Copa del Rey first round match, they suffered a shock 3-4 defeat to Sestau River, a team from the Spanish second division.

Following this defeat, González's coaching career at Espanyol has come to an end. He was fully aware of this and frankly told reporters at the scene: "I am extremely depressed right now, and my spirits are almost completely broken. I must take full responsibility for everything."

"Without a doubt, today is one of the worst days of my life."

With González officially dismissed, Espanyol's search for a new manager is in full swing. Their potential targets are reportedly Julen Lopetegui, Eduardo Berizzo, and José Luis Mendiliba, with Lopetegui being the most likely successor.

Image source: Internet/Espanyol official website