RCD Espanyol on a Stellar Run

With three consecutive clean sheets, RCD Espanyol has only allowed a total of 16 goals across 16 league matches. The only team with a better defensive record is Villarreal CF, which has conceded 13 goals but has played one match less.

A Historic Performance

This impressive streak marks the first time since the 2008/09 season that RCD Espanyol has managed to secure four league victories in a row. Back then, they achieved this feat under coach Mauricio Pochettino, defeating teams like Real Racing Club, Real Sporting, Real Betis, and Valencia CF.

Coach Manolo González is well aware of the significance of this achievement. After their victory over Getafe CF, he expressed his pride in the team’s performance, stating: “I’m proud of the team. Winning four games in a row is very challenging, and I’m delighted with the image we’re projecting. We adapt well to each match and compete effectively. The team is keen to perform, and that was clear today. Besides the victories, which are paramount in football, I’m pleased with how the team is presenting itself. We are proving quite tough to defeat.”

A Remarkable Turnaround

The evolution for González and the club has been quite significant. During the 2024/25 season, RCD Espanyol found themselves in a relegation struggle until the very last day, managing to secure their place in the top tier of Spanish football with a 2-0 victory over UD Las Palmas.

Last season, after 16 matches, they had only gathered 14 points, putting pressure on the coaching staff. Currently, they boast 30 points, which reflects one of the club’s best starts to a season. The only time they had more points at this stage was in the 1995/96 season, when they secured 34 points and ultimately finished in fourth place.

Possibility of European Qualification

If the current standings remain unchanged, RCD Espanyol would qualify for European football. Securing fifth place could open the door to the Europa League, and there is potential for a Champions League spot as well. This possibility was showcased last season when Villarreal CF, who finished fifth, gained access to the Champions League due to favorable outcomes for Spanish teams in Europe.

Even if LALIGA EA SPORTS doesn’t get a fifth Champions League spot this season, Espanyol supporters can still envision a return to top-tier European competition. They are just four points behind fourth-placed Atlético de Madrid while also having played one match less.

Manolo González is cautious and emphasizes that the primary goal remains ensuring enough points to avoid relegation. He stated: “I am very happy and calm. My wish is for the team to continue this momentum. We need to compete well and see how far we can progress. Once we reach 42 points, we can evaluate our aspirations.”

The last instance RCD Espanyol qualified for Europe was during the 2019/20 Europa League season, where they reached the Round of 32. The club aspires to return to the continental scene, and maintaining their current winning streak will enhance those chances. Their upcoming match against Athletic Club at San Mamés will be crucial before the holiday break.