Sarabia outlines gradual changes at Espanyol and backs youth

RCD Espanyol

The new coach made it clear that he does not intend to radically change Espanyol from the first match. His priority is to restore the team's solidity and good feelings before gradually introducing his ideas.

«We are going to rescue the good things this team has had and that it has, and we will put our own touch on it», he explained.

Sarabia acknowledged that he has already spoken with the players to find out which positions they feel most comfortable in, information he will take into account when putting together his line-ups.

Youth will get opportunities

One of the main changes could be the academy's increased role.

Sarabia said that when choosing the starting XI, he will not distinguish between young players and veterans, but will instead assess performance and the needs of each match.

«When we understand that they are better than others, then we will play them», he said.

He also confirmed that players from the B team and the youth team will take part regularly in first-team training sessions.

Cabrera and the importance of making the most of individual strengths

The coach spoke about Leandro Cabrera, one of the captains, highlighting his commitment and willingness to adapt to the new project.

He also explained that his style will be more flexible than in previous periods. He does not rule out using direct play when the characteristics of his players call for it, nor alternating different systems during matches.

Deportivo is the first target before the break

Sarabia believes that the international break will be key for working on his style of play, with a multi-day training camp in which he plans to deepen the tactical concepts.

However, before that, he wants to focus on the match against Deportivo.

«This week we haven't talked much about the model. We have talked about Deportivo, the game plan, and very clear and simple things», he said.

The coach did not confirm names for his first starting XI, but he left a clear message: he will look for a proactive, brave Espanyol with offensive alternatives, without giving up the solidity that characterized the team in its best moments under Manolo González.