Espanyol Preview

Overview:
Espanyol are a team of a special quality, with some sparking moments recently, as the win of the Copa Del Rey last year. So they qualified for the UEFA Cup in a year they were closer than ever to relegation! A strange team that can win or lose against anyone. They cannot be trusted at home or away.

Players In:
Ernesto Valverde
Moha (Osasuna) 
Lacruz (Athletic) 
Rufete (Valencia) 
Jonatas (Flamengo) 
Players Out:
Domi (Olimpiakos)
Lopo (Deportivo) 
Miguel Ángel Lotina 
Juanfran (RM Castilla) 
Pochettino
Jofre (Murcia)

Transfers assessment:
Two central defenders are out, Lopo and Pochettino. They used to be first choice but they also missed many games through injuries and suspensions. So Espanyol won't miss them. Lotina was declared as a hero in Barcelona, but he left at the peak of his glory. Valverde is the new coach. He did well in Bilbao, but there he new the team and city very well. Espanyol sold another "jacket" in Olympiakos and Domi won't be missed by anyone. Moha is an excellent winger, Larcuz will be helpful in defence and Rufete will provide extra power from the right side. But Juanfran could be better than Rufete. Overall, Espanyol are a bit strengthened, mainly in the middle line where they needed reinforcement.

Verdict:
It’s a mystery with the UEFA Cup in the middle and Valverde in charge. Espanyol will fight to avoid early involvement in relegation troubles. Possible position 14-17.

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