Espanyol sack Manolo Gonzalez after Copa del Rey upset by Sestao River

Espanyol have dismissed head coach Manolo Gonzalez following their shock Copa del Rey defeat by fourth-tier side Sestao River.

The La Liga club confirmed Gonzalez’s departure but have not yet named his successor.

Espanyol were eliminated in the first round of the Copa del Rey after losing 4-3 to Sestao River, who play in Spain’s fourth division.

The result capped a difficult start to the season for Espanyol, who are currently 18th in La Liga with eight points.

Reports before the match suggested Gonzalez had been given one final opportunity to save his position against Sestao River. His side’s defeat led to the club deciding to end his tenure.

Julen Lopetegui has been identified in reports as the leading candidate to replace Gonzalez. Espanyol have not confirmed whether Lopetegui will take charge.

Gonzalez became Espanyol manager in 2024 and guided the club back to Spain’s top flight.

During his time in charge, he managed Espanyol in 107 matches. The team won 33 of those games, lost 44 and drew 30.

Espanyol’s next fixture is away to Villarreal at La Ceramica in the 11th round of La Liga.