González eyes attacking reinforcements as Espanyol prepare for Catalan derby
Espanyol boss Manolo González reveals transfer priorities ahead of crucial Girona clash, with winger or striker top of his January wishlist.
Espanyol’s gaffer Manolo González has made it crystal clear where his transfer priorities lie as the January window heats up, with attacking reinforcements firmly on the agenda for the Pericos.
Transfer talk dominates derby build-up
Speaking ahead of Friday’s Catalan derby against Girona at the RCDE Stadium, González addressed the club’s transfer plans following Javi Puado’s recent injury setback.
“Everyone’s been saying I asked for an attacking midfielder, but I reckon the priority is a winger or another striker,” González clarified during his pre-match press conference, which coincided with his birthday celebrations.
The gaffer seems reasonably content with his current squad but recognizes the need for reinforcements: “I’m happy with what we’ve got, but if we suffer more injuries it could affect us. If I was certain we wouldn’t have any more players out, I’d crack on with what we have, but nobody knows that.”
Puado setback changes the picture
Puado’s injury has clearly been a blow to Espanyol’s attacking options. González expressed genuine sympathy for the player:
“It’s a shame because it’s been a lovely year. He was in top form, but I told him - he knows what it’s all about. He’ll recover and come back stronger.”
Seeking first win of 2026
Espanyol enter the derby looking for their first victory of 2026 after two matches without a win. They’ll face a Girona side that has never lost at the RCDE Stadium - a stat González isn’t losing sleep over.
“There’s rivalry between the clubs and three points at stake, but it does have a special flavor,” he admitted. “Not because we’ve never won here, but because we want to win, knowing it’s a difficult match.”
Different Espanyol this season
González highlighted how his approach has evolved compared to last season:
“The idea has changed. Last year we wanted to change systems a lot; when we became more pragmatic, things improved. We now have players who understand the game.”
This shift in philosophy appears to be paying dividends, with Espanyol showing significant improvement this term. González credits multiple factors for their solid form:
- Connection with the fans
- Team’s self-belief
- Extensive offensive and defensive work
- Continuity allowing for better implementation of ideas
The manager also expressed appreciation for the backing he’s received: “I’ve been lucky enough to coach at all levels. I’ve reached somewhere I didn’t expect, working honestly without stepping on anyone’s toes.”