Manolo González backs José Ángel and explains his choice

RCD Espanyol

The Espanyol coach had several options to cover the right-back spot, including moving Unai Núñez there, but he has ultimately opted for the academy player. Manolo explained that the decision was practically made the day before and that his intention was to give confidence to a young footballer who naturally plays in that position.

"First you have to trust young players. If we never put them on the pitch, we won't know what kind of performance they can deliver. I think he is capable. His natural position is not that one, the one of Unai Núñez, because they are not full-backs. I have confidence in the kid. Yesterday I didn't want to say it in the press conference because I didn't want to give too much information, but it was pretty clear to me: he was going to play".

José Ángel López, 20, belongs to Espanyol B and is a right-back specialist. The defender has been getting into the first team's squads since the start of the season, and during the summer he also worked under Manolo González.

An important opportunity for José Ángel

The suspension of Omar El Hilali now gives him a chance to stake his claim. What's more, the choice is especially significant because Andoni Gorosabel has already been included in the squad and Unai Núñez could also act as an emergency solution.

Manolo, however, has preferred to keep each player in their natural position and reward the work of the young full-back. His performance against Elche could determine whether he starts to have more of a presence in Espanyol's rotation.