Espanyol returns to the official competition. And even if it is against a modest team like Atlético El Paso, from the Second Federation, a victory is necessary for many reasons. First for staying alive in the Copa del Rey competition itself, second for getting off to a good start in an official match after the World Cup break. Last but not least, to regain the confidence of the fans just before the derby, on December 31.
Espanyol's coach, Diego Martínez, explained before the game that they intend to "go through the tie" and that the team "continue shooting" for the following official commitments. The Galician, in any case, does not let his guard down despite facing a rival from the Second Federation: "It will be a very complex match. Mentalization and immediate adaptation to the field (due to grass and dimensions) is essential and we must do things well to pass".
In addition, the parakeet coach recalled that Atlético Paso, from La Palma, "has suffered socially" due to the eruption of the volcano that began on September 19, 2021 and officially lasted 85 days: "For us it is nice to go there and that it can enjoy a match against a First Division rival".
On the other hand, the coach assessed the possible incorporations in the imminent winter transfer window: "We all agree within the club that we have needs to cover, identified by issues such as performance or circumstances such as injuries or casualties."
The blue and white coach also pointed out that these reinforcements must provide "quantity and quality" to "help" the block in this stretch of the season, taking into account that the ideal is to obtain "immediate performance". "Hopefully they can come as soon as possible because we need them," he added.
Asked about the supposedly strong discussion he had with the sports director, Domingo Catoira, in Murcia, Diego Martínez reacted with a smile: "Any organization that aspires to improve must have debate, criticism, jokes, moments of relaxation and tension. Always from respect and cordiality".
In any case, the coach explained that "out of habit and principles", what happens in a group "must remain within as in any family". On the other hand, the Galician acknowledged that the winter market is "difficult" and asserted that the club is doing "everything possible."
Diego Martínez stressed that he has "optimism and confidence" in the team, but, he pointed out, "from realism." "Trust is essential, as long as we are realistic about what we are experiencing. We all depend on everyone and the best way to get the best version of yourself is to enjoy the journey," he added.
On a personal level, the person in charge of the blue and white bench commented that, despite the "many difficulties" that "unfortunately" the group is experiencing, he is "enjoying" being the Espanyol coach as "a daily challenge and a forge of character". .
