Real Madrid 2-0 Espanyol: 4 Talking Points

Modified Dec 07, 2019 15:52 GMT

3. Relegation threat looming large for Espanyol

Espanyol have spent the better part of their existence in the shadows of their more illustrious neighbours, Barcelona, but they are one of the more respectable teams outside the traditional clubs in Spain and have a decent enough history to boast of.

Last season, the club impressively finished in 7th place last season to secure European participation this season.

It was expected that Espanyol would build on that this term and at least secure continental football once again but so far this season, the reverse has been the case.

The club have won just two of their opening 10 LaLiga fixtures and it was this disastrous start to the campaign that led to the termination of David Gallego's contract and his replacement with former Sevilla man Pablo Machin.

The change in the dugout has, however, not had the desired impact and Los Periquitos currently find themselves second-from-bottom and are yet to win any of their eight home games in the league this season.

This contrasts with their performance in Europe where they have secured qualification and sit top of their group but with the games coming in thick and fast, Espanyol have to start getting positive results quick if they are to preserve their top-flight status come next season.

About the author

Elvis is a seasoned football journalist and has been with Sportskeeda for more than 6 years. He specializes in writing match previews across several leagues and competitions around the world, and his insightful tips have amassed a total readership in excess of 9.2 million till date. Elvis' meticulous attention to detail and strictly following SK's editorial guidelines have been key to achieving a vast readership. He has also exclusively covered the 2021 Nigerian Universiy Games and has provided research for an upcoming biography for a Nigerian football legend.

Elvis has been a Super Eagles fan since 2004, and them beating defending champions Cameroon in the AFCON that year left a lasting impact on him. He supports Sporting Lagos at club level and loves to watch games live at the Onikan Stadium due to its buzzing atmosphere. His favorite football players are former Nigerian forward, Osaze Odemwingie and former Real Madrid legend Raul Gonzalez.

If Elvis could change one football rule, it would be to not be booked for celebrating with pitch side fans. He believes that football is a passionate game and celebrations should be encouraged to the fullest. When not analyzing the latest previews, Elvis indulges in activities such as swimming, reading, and karaoke.

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Edited by Sai Teja