Espanyol dismiss Manolo Gonzalez after Copa del Rey defeat by fourth-tier Sestao River Club

Espanyol have dismissed head coach Manolo Gonzalez after their Copa del Rey campaign ended with a 4-3 defeat by fourth-tier side Sestao River Club.

The Catalan club confirmed the decision on Tuesday, following a match in which Espanyol surrendered control during extra time. The result created significant pressure around Gonzalez and prompted the board to make an immediate change as the club looked for a new direction.

Gonzalez had acknowledged before kick-off that his position was at risk, with the outcome of the cup tie carrying added significance. The way Espanyol were eliminated ultimately made it difficult for him to remain in charge.

His departure comes despite the goodwill he had built with Espanyol supporters and the club hierarchy. Gonzalez had helped keep the team competitive in La Liga, strengthening confidence in his leadership during a tenure that included both positive and difficult periods.

The Spaniard managed Espanyol in 107 official matches at the RCDE Stadium over more than three seasons. During that time, he dealt with a number of sporting challenges and remained responsible for the first team through several contrasting stages of the club’s campaign.

Espanyol said Gonzalez had left a personal and professional impression both on the pitch and in the club’s daily operations. The club also recognised his commitment and the professionalism he showed while attempting to address the difficulties faced by the team.

In a statement, Espanyol said: “RCD Espanyol have decided to bring Manolo Gonzalez’s tenure as coach of the club to an end. The two parties part ways after more than three seasons and 107 official games in charge of the first team, a period during which he left his personal and professional mark, both on the pitch and in the team’s day-to-day operations.”

The club added: “RCD Espanyol, on behalf of club president Alan Pace, and its Board of Directors, wish to express our gratitude to Manolo Gonzalez for the work, commitment, and effort he has shown since taking charge of the first team.

“The club particularly values the professionalism and dedication he brought to his role, as well as the way he tackled the various sporting challenges he faced. The club wish him the very best of luck and success in his future endeavours.”