Eder Sarabia has promised to make Espanyol a team that takes the initiative with the ball, while stressing that he cannot guarantee results. The new coach said his priorities are to work hard, create a positive atmosphere, bring out the best in the squad and establish a clear identity.
Sarabia has spent his first days at the club speaking with players and using video sessions to explain his approach. He said the aim is to give them useful information without overwhelming them, and to help them understand the reasons behind the team’s decisions on the pitch.
Espanyol’s recent win at Villarreal has encouraged the coach. Sarabia said the team pressed effectively, looked comfortable in possession and conceded few chances. He also praised interim coach Sergio García for preparing the match and lifting the team’s energy. Sarabia believes the squad has the talent and options to play the way he wants, and said the club’s academy players will be important.
After Saturday’s match against Deportivo, Sarabia plans to take the squad on a training stay from Tuesday to Saturday, with a friendly scheduled at the end. The location has not yet been confirmed. He said the sessions will focus on creating numerical advantages, team structures and combinations, as well as pressing and the use of space and time.
Sarabia will not be on the touchline for the Deportivo game because he still has one match of a suspension carried over from his time at Elche. Members of his staff, Jon López and Aitor Unzué, will take charge from the bench.
The coach said Espanyol’s immediate objective is to move away from the relegation zone, but he also wants to establish a longer-term project that reflects the club’s history. He described himself as optimistic and ambitious, while saying the team must progress through smaller goals.
Sources: El País Deportes.