18 points from 18, Espanyol have recieved a bye to the second round of the youth cup where they will face either Arsenal or Leicester. The Spanish side comfortably progressed from their group, but will need to be at their very best if they are to progress further.

The team has got stronger as the competition has progressed with rating increases for Hartman (+8), Martel (+1) Sangante (+2), whilst the capture of GK Nescheret (82) defender Pacho (87) and Ramsey (87) increased the teams first 11 AV rating. With updates now in full swing and a number of the squad due to rise the team could possibly have a stronger look to it by the time their second round fixture comes.

"We are happy with the progress the squad is making, we've currently 19 players rated 80 or above currently eligible for this seasons competition of which only 3 can't play in next seasons competition. This allows us to play a number of different formations without weakening the overall side. We are in the bottom half of the draw which is arguably the harder path to the final, especially when we consider that our next game could be against last seasons semi finalist who boast the likes of Martinelli and Caicedo as just a couple of players that jump off the paper. Arsenal are equally no push-overs and historically are strong in all cup competitions. In general there are some very strong sides in the competition, which in some cases have been further strengthened by loaning in the best players from teams who did not enter, something I think the organisers should look at going forwards, given the squad cap of 50 should be adequate enough for teams to a) Firstly enter b) to not require additional resources from other teams. If they do, I don't personally think that teams who don't enter should be allowed to loan players out for the purpose of this competition".

With Espanyol guaranteed to progress to the next stage of the youth cup with 5 wins from 5, the manager is happy to not thrust his teenage sensations into action.

Eliesse Ben Seghir at just 18 burst onto the scene in France late last year and already has a transfermkt vaiue of £18 million, his value is expected to rise again this month given his performances and stats.

This past weekend Arda Guler starred as Fenerbache won the Turkish cup. Also just 18 and not 19 until next year, Newcastle United are trying to bring him to England. With a transfermkt value of £15 million after another £4 million increase this week, the talented attacking midfielder dubbed the Turkish Messi has his suitors in top 100.

Alvaro Rodriguez 18 has broken on the scene at Real Madrid this season, so much so they blocked him going to the under 20 world cup in which he is Uruguays star man. Despite his absence, Uruguay won the world cup last night with another Espanyol man 19 year old Luciano Rodriguez grabbing the winner against Italy. Luciano is being chased by Barcelona and Real madrid, and his stock would of risen further after last nights heroics.

The teenage theme don't quite end with this quartet, as Liverpools Kaide Gordon 18, Argentinian star Julian Fernandez, Santos break out star Wessley Patati 19, French star El Arouch, Englands Adam Wharton, German striker Keke Topp, Croatian Roko Simic are all notable players playing first team football and representing their countries.

"We've a pool of teenage talent, who are making notable contributions in world football. We wanted a conveyor belt affect at this club. Last seasons youth team who reached the final, some are now in the first team. This seasons youth team also has players now getting some first team action. The natural progression will be these teenage stars, who could become not only part of a dominant youth team, but have the all the signs of being some of the games top players. We continue to scout wide and far with a growing shortlist. This has meant we've had to sell a few for cash, with Nanasi and Sasaki two examples of that this season, where we reluctantly let them go despite the signs they could be really good players."

Espanyol have made a shock swoop to secure french under 21 international Kalimuendo from Juventus. The french star has been tracked for 12 months, however bids and messages were ignored by the previous Juve regime.

Its not been cheap though, with Espanyol surprisingly agreeing to let teenage Brazilan hot shot Leonardo head to turin.

"This was a really difficult decision and one we took advice on. Centre forwards with true potential are so hard to find and in Leonardo we strongly believe we had one who could be the real deal. Kalimuendo though is playing in a strong French league and continues to show progression. Although 18 months older, his versatility is what swung it in the end. We've Broja, Ben Seghir, Elanga, Christensen, Simic, Hansen, Nanasi and Turco all youth strikers on the books and having a wide forward who can compliment them was our thinking"

Meanwhile Espanyol have also moved to grab free agent Wessley Patati, a player the manager has monitored for 18 months. The Santos star has a current 100 million £ release clause and had started the season well with 7 goals in 7 games for Santos famous under 20 team. The likes of Real Madrid and Manchester City have this talented player on their radar.

"We've had to be patient to secure Palati, we needed squad space, and there was always a risk someome would get wind and steal from under our noses. South America and in particular Brazil continues to be a hot spot for us, given the research and effort we put in into watching games and scouting out there. We have another two or three on our radar but like Palati we will need to be patient and await the squad space opening up"

Espanyol 2 v 0 Genoa.The Espanyol fans flocked to the RCDE Stadium, to see their hero's first home game of the season back in Division 1.

In what has been dubbed in most quarters as "mission impossible", this seasons Espanyol find themselves in Division 1 , three seasons too early. The current side is ranked 52 out of 100, having taken the route to build for the long term, but despite their lowly rating the team has continued to defy the odds, which included promotion last season which was not envisaged by the stats until the end of season 23.

Espanyol went into the game without their highest rated player, Di Maria who is still recovering from a broken arm and had decisions to make across the team on who would get the nod.

Last seasons Youth cup engine room hero Stiller, who is also expected to be this seasons youth cup kingpin, was brought in, to start the match ahead of close season signings Ilic and Vieira. Whilst Smith-Rowe, and Almada made up a very young central midfield. With Di Maria out, Swedish wide player Karlsson was chosen ahead of Silas and Elanga, whilst at the back D'ambrosio surprisingly kept his place at rightback ahead of Kristensen.

Genoa have a team of stars and their ratings at kick off dwarfed that of the spanish side.In a end to end first half both sides had chances, with Karlsson, Ibrahimovic and Stiller testing Navas for Espanyol, whilst Genoa's Gouri and Gravenbach both going close on a couple of occassions. Neither side could find a breakthrough though as they went in at halftime goalless.

Espanyol were quick out the traps in the second half and veteran forward Ibrahimovic found Eric Garcia, and the Spanish centre back curled a sublime shot past Navas to silence the away support. Espanyol then pushed for a second and in the 64th minute man of the match Otavio found Karlsson whose low shot found its way past Navas to give the homeside a deserved 2-0 lead. Genoa didn't really recover from that moment on and the homeside limited them to brief moments with some excellent game management.

"It was nice to win the game, keep a clean sheet and give our fans something to cherish. Since i arrived, we've continually punched above our weight and defied the odds. We hear the term "building" thrown around a lot. However our ethos has always been the same, try and win games and be successful on the pitch each season. Yes we have been building the long term foundations, however we continue to overachieve each season with tonight another typical example of "Project Espanyol" . We are under no illusions where are team currently sits, but know that we now have the squad which will improve season upon season with the personnel we have already in the building. We will have some tough nights this season, so its important we celebrate the nice results when we get them, as its a snippet of what will be achieved long term"

Newly promoted Espanyol go into the new season as relegation favourites in Division 1, after their play off success last season. There is no pressure on the spanish side with their stats some way below that of all their division 1 rivals.

Its been an intriguing 3.5 seasons at the helm for the manager. The team has achieved a 6th place finish in division 1, a European Trophy, and despite suffering a relegation in their free season, the club bounced straight back to claim promotion and another free season, and this was achieved 3 seasons ahead of target, with reaching the play offs only predicted at the end of season 22, with promotion likely only in season 23.

Twice in 3 seasons the manager has made the short list for the manager of the season, whilst his young side is starting to look very exciting for the future.

"Its fair to say we have arrived in Division 1, three seasons ahead of target and with that comes the downside of us being significantly lower rated than the rest. Being in division 1 will not change a single thing for us, we've been building the foundations for long term success and are pretty much there now in terms of the squad which will take us forward for many years to come.

We had only one option when I arrived, the squad was old, lacking any depth and ranked 14th in division 1. There was no chance we could just sit on players 34, 35, 36 years old, or we'd of dropped down through the divisions with little hope of a sustainable team for the future. Its took a lot of time and effort to go from a squad of no hope, to a squad of serious young talent who we take daily messages for from the bigger clubs to try and tempt us to sell. We won't be doing that, we've set our stall out to be a team where the squad grows together so one day it becomes a serious top 4 side in division 1, and I believe time will show that those stars are already sat in Espanyol's ranks to make that dream a reality.

We will once again enter the youth cup this season, with the knowledge that 8 of this teams youth cup best 11, will also qualify play in season 22's and in many cases also season 23 and 24. We are also purring at the fact thet the likes of Fernandez, Ben Seghir, Guler, Gordon, Chaibi, and Simic are not even in consideration for the youth team yet, which demonstrates the strength of our young players, whilst showcasing the work we've put in over a sustainable amount of time to put our club very much on the list to keep an eye on as seasons progress.

Hidden deeper within those youth players are Turco, Christensen, El Arouch, Pedrola and Rankine, players who are quietly going under the radar but are expected to break out during 2023-24.

Whilst rebuilding the youth set up, we have also brought in some excellent young players into the first team, Ilic, Vieira, Garcia, Vivian Smith-Rowe, Almada, Stiller and Hickey will all play a significant part this season, whilst youth team strikers Broja, Elanga and Leonardo are all expected to play a large amount of first team games learning from the legend that is Ibrahimovic.

Although relegation is somewhat guaranteed, and if anything welcomed at this stage of our squad development we feel that a return to division 1 football for season 24 as a team who can then stay there is the long term plan. This squad is going to be allowed to grow, we have no need to sell anyone, whilst right now our only focus on recruitment is external youths who can be added to the squad. We plan to sign 5 of these over the season to take our squad back up to 50 in which we have a strong shortlist of players both on the database and also ones likely to be added."

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The Celebrations will go on long into the night as Espanyol beat Bayer Leverkeusen 4-2 on penalties after the teams drew 1-1.

Ronaldo got the equaliser in normal time, before Otavio stepped up and smashed home the winning penalty to send Espanyol back to division 1 at the first time of asking.

With the team also reaching the youth cup final this season, it tops off a remarkable journey for the side who were ranked 13th best in the division before a ball was kicked.

At the halfway stage of the season the club was 17th, however the second half of the season saw the team storm up the table to finish 4th and grab a place in the play offs.

"We had not planned on promotion, we've let big stars go in the last week, but showed our fight to the end. Our build has always been a about long term success and the foundations are clearly there. We are under no illusions , next season is going to be a slog, but we believe in what we are doing and are looking forwards to seeing this team grow. We look at those idiots down the road Levante who have suffered back to back relegations with all their eggs in the youth team basket. We will start next season 2 divisions higher, but with the comfort we also made the youth cup final and showed why he will continue to be a shit manager, and why their supporters continue to leave in their 1000's due to the pain and embrassment he has bestowed on that club. We have a free season next season and will likely come back down as we are ahead of schedule. However this team is looking tasty in the youth department. We've some of the best young players in the world, and at some point we are going to be a team fighting at the higher reaches of division 1"

38 league games, 1 play off semi-final and it all comes down to one match, the Division 2 play off final.
Espanyol will face off against German opposition again as they face a Bayer Leverkeusen side who clearly sport a squad rating advantage.

Leverkeusen go into the game without Bennacer, Andersen and Christensen who are either injured or suspended. In normal circumstances this would be a big loss to any team. However the german side sport one of the better squads to cope with absentees and are likely to partner Lovren 89 and Romo 87 at centre back which is still greater than the two centre backs in D'ambrosio 87 and Boscagli 87 who will be at the heart of the Espanyol defence. Elsewhere the Germans have 90 plus rated players across the pitch, giving them the advantage on paper.

Espanyol have continued to plan long term and have recently lost Parejo 92, Locatelli 91 Ocampos 90 and Senesi 88 who have been mainstays in the clubs run to finish 4th. All have moved onto pastures new.

Espanyol also face a number of fitness issues as their pre-planned substitutions in the semi final, for some reason did not occur, meaning their best 11 played 90 minutes.

In Ronaldo, Muller and Vardy the spanish side certainly have match winners, but all three are not fully fit. Midfield is also a big problem, Smith-Rowe is almost certainly out of contention from starting, whilst Otavio and Krunic are touch and go.

In stand buy is Hickey, Karlsson, Silas and Leonardo who could become unlikely options to start the game and if not could be on the pitch at some point.

Its an intriguing fixture in the sense, a promotion does not suit Espanyol at this stage of their build, its probably two seasons too soon, but is testament to the competitive nature of the Manager.

"We are relaxed about the game as its more than we expected this season and whichever way it goes we wont be disappointed. Division 1 right now would be a massive struggle for this squad of players. Our planning has always been around being in division 2 next season, and although we will try our best to win the game, we are realistic in terms of where we are right now as a squad. Its the final game for our veterans Muller, Vardy and Ronaldo before they exit the club, and maybe they have that one last gift for the club within them to upset the odds on the night. The opposition have had the luxary of adding another 90 player who is fully fit to their line up in the last 24 hours.

We have been hit with a few blows in the transfer market the last 24 hours with Malaga's Manager resigning which has put our pre-agreed transfers at risk. This will have a knock on affect if one of the managers we have other deals agreed with takes that role. We are having to quickly do the maths and re-allign targets as we sold players on the back of those deals and cannot exactly turn the time back.

Its all a bit of a mess right now, and it certainly will change our model in terms of pre-agreed deals which cannot be partially completed at the time.

With the Espanyol facing Werder Bremen in the play offs tonight, we look at the future options in attack as Vardy, Ronaldo and Muller are all to exit at the end of the season.

Marcos Leonardo- at just 19 the Brazilan starlet was the jewel of the youth team which which reached this seasons youth cup final. The club has knocked back some big bids for the player throughout the season, and with the season coming to a close two new clubs also came in yesterday to try and tempt Espanyol to sell. To date the club has stood firm on a player who is seen as a player who is destined for big things. Europe is circling with a move to Europe looking a case of when and not if. In a GW where many clubs are looking to snap up top young players its no surprise that the talented striker is top of many list.

Armando Broja - is due to join from Chelsea, and although injured, is young enough to bounce back. Already seen as very much a first team player at Stamford Bridge, his arrival at Espanyol will see him not only spear heading the youth teams atrack, but also in and around the first team as he battles with Leonardo for regular first team football.

Eliesse Ben Seghir - having just turned 18 and burst onto the scene at Monaco, the exciting teenager is already being dubbed as one of the best they've produced. Interest in the GW is hot with knock backs for players 92 plus having already occurred. Seen as the one player who is simply not for sale, Espanyol hope they have on their hands one of the best

Julian Fernandez- Has started the season in Argentina exactly how he ended the last, in form and turning heads. The Argentinian under 20 international was a big investment for Espanyol with them paying a very large fee at the beginning of the season. Although there has been interest and its thought the club may cash in, its believed it will take a big offer for Espanyol to consider letting one of Argentina's best teenagers leave the club.

Ken Nkubu - The Belgium youngster was quietly snuck into the club but is having a fine season and continues to catch the eye in his homeland. Although relatively unknown at this stage, Espanyol are happy to have him for their youth cup team next season and wait to see how he develops over the next 12 months.

Pablo Solari - without doubt a talented player and at a cross road with the Spanish side. The player has been made available for transfer and despite some interest, nothing has been put on the table which is realistic. He is versatile and with the updates not far off, his value is likely to increase to a level which could put him in and around the first team.

Anthony Elanga- Another due to join, and although struggling for first team minutes at Manchester United it can be easy to forget he is only 20. Seen as an integral part of next seasons youth cup, This summer could be pivotal in his progression with a number of clubs in real life interested in signing the Swedish international. Another player Espanyol want to sit on, and one who will command a big figure if the club choose to cash in , at some point in the future.

Gustav Christensen- continues to break youth records in Denmark and is one who although off the radar, could very soon be on it once he gets some first team action for his parent club. He has already made his debut at the top level and is working his way through the different age groups at international level. Seen as a long term investment and a low key gamble, he is one that the manager really rates.

Abde Ezzalzouli- The Barcelona starlet is impressing out on loan in spain this season and had also made his first team breakthrough for the spanish giants. He is due to arrive from Malaga and one who could easily kick on to become an excellent first team player. He will be part of next seasons youth team and will be hoping to get minutes for the first team in the cups.

Estanis Pedrola- Relatively unknown but on the brink of the Barcelona first team, an agreement has been made with Partizan for him to join Espanyol during the close season. He has quick feet plays as an attacking wide player and although raw right now, could be the next one to come of the Espanyol production line ad top youth talents who go on to be big players in top100.

Boulaye Dia - Also arriving from Partizan and having an excellent season in Italy, Dia is expected to be the clubs first choice striker next season. Although rated much lower than this seasons front three, the free season next season gives the club the luxary of results not being too important.

As the season comes to a close and a play off spot guaranteed, we look ahead to next season and the pending battle for first team football for many of Espanyol's squad. Today we focus on left back and the options the club will have following the agreement to sell current first choice left back Vinicius Abner.

D'Ambrosio - He maybe the veteran of the team and when re-signed this season, the expectation was he'd be a bit part player. However he has started 36 out of 37 league games to date as he has made the rightback slot his own. Equally comfortable at left back, its likely he will start next season as one of the favourites to secure the jersey for the opening fixture.

Boscagli- only 3 starts so far since arriving from Malaga and generally been utilsed as central defensive cover, however at just 25 is equally at home at Left back and will be looking to make that spot his own next season as the competition hots up.

Hickey - At 20 he is seen as a long term option in either fullback position. Initially signed as the long term successor to D'Ambrosio, he has yet to start a game for the first team, however next season the cups and youth cup is where he will be utilised in the first instance, whilst offering a first team option as cover at left back, should injuries and suspensions open up the opportunity. The club has knocked back 3 bids for the player, who is simply "not for sale"

Hartman - Has been one of the biggest break out players in Holland this season, and is the current league leaders Feyenoord's first choice left back. His value is increasing and his rating is expected to do like wise. He will start next season in the wilderness un terms of first team football, however the updates may just have him knocking on the door come the end of the season.

Flach - Was part of the youth team which got to this seasons final. A decision had yet to be made if the club retain his services for next season. He has an ok rating for a young player and could easily get an update to put him in the cup picture for selection.

Diakite - another versatile player having an oustanding season in france. Although seen as someone who can develop into one of the clubs first choice centre backs, we fully expect the updates to put him in the picture for being an option at left back if the need arises.

With 6 left backs on the book, and all with a chance of impacting the first team at some point, this is a position the club feels well stacked in.

Espanyol have opted to take a new direction ahead of their last 3 games. With a free season all but secured the board has sanctioned the departures of the veterans who have driven the side up to fourth.

Taking a look at what the long term future looks like, we dig into the young stars who will sport the shirts for seasons to come.

Marcos Leonardo 19 - The Brazilan sensation from Santos continues to perk the interest of some of the biggest clubs in world football. Already 86 rated in SM, and the Catalyst to the clubs run to this seasons youth cup final he is expected to be the teams focul point for many seasons to come.

Eliesse Ben Seghir 18 - Has burst onto the scene at Monaco this season, and is already been muttered as one of the best to make the breakthrough there. Captured quietly under the radar from Valencia, the Espanyol gaffer has stated right now a 94 rated player wouldn't get him off Espanyol.

Arda Guler 18 - Like Leonardo he arrives for a big price, considering a 92 and 91 have gone the other way, its a massive show of faith that the manager believes he is special. Already an 80 rated player, but one others would love, he is a long term investment who will be allowed to grow in the background.

Mohamed El Arouch 18 - Returned to the club from Chelsea recently, and had since made his full debut for Lyon. Long regarded as the best player to come through their academy, he is seen as someone who will become more coveted during 2023. He is one to watch and another with a big future.

Anthony Elanga 20 - He has long been rated highly, but struggled for game time at Man Utd and needs that transfer but is still a boy. Likely to be part of next seasons youth team 2023 is a big year for him. A decent move in the summer could see his career really take off.

Dion Rankine 20 - He is not a household name yet, but the Chelsea youngster is banging on the door at Stamford bridge. They have had to work hard recently to tie him down to a new deal as a number lf rivals were trying to grab him. He is quick and versatile and one for all to watch.

Aaron Hickey 20 - already a valuable player and playing in the Premiership, his ability to play down the left or right makes him invaluable. Espanyol find them stocked with young full backs and it will be interesting to see if he stays as the first choice at the club as updates propel others into contention.

Kaide Gordon 18- has been injured all season with a pelvic injury, but is on the brink of a return to the Liverpool fold. He was an expensive teenager when signed from Derby and at 18 has plenty of time on his side to become a top player. Espanyol paid a lot to get him and will need to be patient to get a return on that investment.

David Kalokoh 17 - the ajax youngster is certainly getting rave reviews and has cost Espanyol four players. Thats some faith the manager has shown, in a player yet to play first team football. He is one he has tried to sign for ages and is thrilled to have him.

Julian Fernandez 18 - deemed as one of Argentina's best young talents, the Velez Sarsfield versatile offensive player is already developing into a big player in his homeland. Seen as a long term investment, and an update due, he is expected to be pushing for a start in the youth cup next season.

Gustav Christensen 18 - is tearing it up at youth level with an astonishing 27 goals in 18 games this season from left wing. Liverpool are one of a number of clubs tracking him and it is hoped he starts to get more first team minutes in Denmark to inflate his rating.

Franca Wesley 19 - Has burst onto the scene at Flamengo and is expected to complete a real life move to Barcelona to become part of their first team. If that happens, then he is one of a number of players expected to push Hickey for a starting spot.

Arouna Sangante 20 - is a name for all to remember, currently an integral part of Le Havres water tight defence , who are expected to be promoted to the the top flight in french football. He has every chance of being a big star. He is part of the successful Espanyol youth team from this season and is expected to be pivotal again next season.

Fares Chaibi 20 - has been in outstanding form for Toulouse in France this season, his trickery and eye for goal had suitors queuing to capture him. Seen as very much part of the long term first team picture, he us expected to get another nice update.

Ivan Fresneda 18 - An exciting right back who nearly got a 25 million move to Arsenal in January. Other clubs like Man Utd also want him, so he is going to be another chasing Hickey down for first team football, sooner rather than later.

Q Hartman 21 - Feyenoord are on the verge of becoming Dutch champions and their rise to the top has conincided with the breakout of Hartman. His value and rating is set to rocket, and although young Abner is Espanyol's first team left back at just 22, he could soon come under threat by Hartman's emergence.

Daniliuc 21 - is a regurlar in Italy and his versatility will see him in and around the Espanyol first team for many seasons to come.

Ilic 21 - Another pocket rocket midfielder, and cute capture by Espanyol, he joins the engine room to add competition to Stiller, Smith - Rowe and Vieira. This is an area the club are now stacked with young players with big futures.

Thiago Almada 21 - went to the world cup and started the MLS season in great form. A move to Europe is on the cards now with it now being as when rather than if. He will be part of the first team and youth team next season and is a important capture for the club.

Pape Sarr 20 - another talented central midfielder who an 85 rating already. He is likeky to be part of the youth team set up, as not quite ready to be in the Espanyol first team picture. However he is deemed a long term investment and one who will add value next season.

Abde Ezzalzouli 21 - is already making an impression in spain and one Barcelona like. Deemed as someone who could really kick on at Espanyol, the manager is pleased to add him to the roster and see if he can boost himself next season which in turn sees a rating boost.

Ash Phillips 17 - returns to Espanyol and continues to be tracked by Englands elite. Part of blackburns promotion chasing team, he has the world at his feet.

Brandon Soppy 21 - another talented full back , he has struggled of late for minutes at Atalanta, however he has lots of time on his hands to be a good player.

Abiel Osorio 20 - leads velez's attack, and although raw has potential to be a very good player. 2023 could be a big year for him.

Armando Broja 21 - an injury cruelly ended the Chelsea stars season, however the raw talent is there. The hope is he can make a full recovery, if he can, he could prove to be a real bargain and will forge an interesting youth team strike force with Leonardo

The war of words is showing no signs of easing up between Espanyol and Levante, as the two local sides are set to meet up in the Youth cup final this weekend.

It’s well documented, that the Espanyol boss, sees the competition as of little importance, due to the match engine not considering, injuries, suspensions, morale or fatigue.

Espanyol entered the competition for the first time this season to support the game-world in one of its many initiatives, but it was certainly not identified within the corridors of the Espanyol boardroom as something which should be prioritised.  Having a youth team is a “means” to supporting a successful first team, not a means to “FUCK” the first team.

Levante have been clear that they “Have played their final” having referred to it twice this past week following their semi-final victory over Barcelona and with that showing total disrespect to the other sides who have entered the tournament this time around.

Levante have continued to prioritise this competition above any other, despite their being no skill in winning it. This is of course the opinion of the Espanyol Manager , who has quite easily made it to the final, despite selling players like Caicedo and Alberto who were in Espanyol’s best youth 11 during the season. Building a team for now, tomorrow and the future takes far more effort and skill and is a model many teams are taking for the betterment of the game world.

Success is measured by many factors, but the league must always be a team’s priority. It’s 38 games, managing fatigue, squad, suspensions, injuries and morale, whilst pitting yourself against the best managers the game world can offer. Its about winning titles, making it to Europe, avoiding relegation, winning promotions and winning cups where you must manage all the variables a season can throw at you. Its about ensuring your team competes, as would be expected in real life. Football around the world, people spend their hard-earned cash on season tickets to see success on the pitch for the first team, the youth team winning is a bonus, but does not see managers keep jobs or be applauded if the main product is failing.

We looked into the rules as we feel Levante have brought the game into disrepute. As per below, having finished 20th in division 1 last season, the managers position should of gone to a panel. This did not occur, however what had escalated the situation further is he should of got a 1 season deal this time around to prove himself that it was a one off, with a minimum top 7 finish. On both counts this has not occurred. These rules are in place to prevent squad decimation in which he is 100% guilty of. This has tarnished this tournament giving a clear unfair advantage over the other 99 managers.

“To be clear, this week and its only Tuesday, we have been accused of not accepting a friendly request within 12 hours. Have received phone calls from the TOP100 FA To accept the said friendly and had whatsapp messages to do the same. This match is not due to played until Saturday and today is only Tuesday. We appreciate that to Levante, winning a free season in this competition is vital, to cover up the piss poor job they’ve done in the league. We appreciate they want to shout they are the youth guru of the world, and every other self-proclaimed plaudit they want to throw out there. How-ever this is low on my priority list, especially as it’s been very easy to make a youth team without selling all my best rated players. He should be embarrassed, that he has sacrificed every single competition for this one, and is on the brink of a double relegation, whilst my approach of “Just entering” Is a victory for the game-world. If I can achieve reaching the final without too much effort, imagine what another manager could achieve with effort, whilst continuing to be successful with their first team”.

Regarding accepting your request Salvo, I will do this in my own time, or will totally forfeit the game so you can have your precious free season by default, You an polish that up anyway you want!!!

With 5 games to go Espanyol sit 4th, but 6 points adrift of 3rd as they look to secure a play-off spot and unlikely return to Division 1 at the first attempt.

This week the club has been rocked by the a long term injury to influential central midfielder Locatelli, who has also played his last game prior to his transfer to Valencia.

"We've a tough run in which includes playing the top 2 in our final five fixtures. We need to try and get 3 wins from these which i think will be enough. Game management will be important with.players walking suspensions tight ropes, whilst further injuries could blow our chances. Yesterday's defeat against Ajax highlights how difficult division 2 is. It was comprehensive, and we need to quickly get back to winning ways, and hope thats not the start of bad run at this critical stage of the season.

Regardless of where we end up, planning is well underway for next season with a few offers on the table for Ronaldo. We have not decided if we are going to cash in yet and as a 94 rated player we will be wanting another striker in exchange."

Espanyol have also made this seasons youth cup final, but this is very low on the managers priority list.

"Our youth team has performed excellently and is in great shape to feed the first team for many seasons to come. Like anything we have the opportunity to cash in on a couple with bids arriving for our main men, Leonardo and Johnson. We no longer need to be selling club, so we are happy to bide our time for the very best value. We've been cute this season, as we've been actively building up next seasons youth team and stealing a march somewhat, with some great players in the squad who have yet to make our youth team best 11, whilst we have 6 more youth players secured who are due to join including Monaco star Ben Seghir.
Contractually we are two seasons ahead of the expectations, so can relax somewhat as we look to turn Espanyol into a real force for seasons to come. We want a team who can get back to division 1, but more importantly stay there. Promotion this season is probably a season too soon for us, with us likely to be in a much stronger position next season. I've really enjoyed rebuilding this club, and now its critical we allow the organic growth to kick in, rather than look for short term success."

Espanyol secured a 3-2 aggregate win other Sampdoria to set up a Semifinal against Leicester in the main youth cup to continue their maiden season in the competition under current Manager Mullan. Its been a long journey to get into a position to enter, but to now be 1 of 4 teams left in the competition from a full GW of 100 managers is a satisfying seasons work from the Spanish side. With next seasons production line of young talent well under-way, whilst the first team in challenging for Promotion (currently sat 4th), Espanyol are in a strong position for the short, medium and long term.

"Its been enjoyable rebuilding this side, putting in place a team which had natural progression in all areas. We are coming to the end of the journey in terms of rebuilding, and can sit back somewhat over the next fews seasons and let the updates work their magic, whilst remaining competitive on all fronts. 95% of our end of season business is already agreed which will see a natural downturn in business we actually do. The squad has that balance now of experience, progression and youth, with some significant assets which we get daily enquiries for. Many of this seasons youth team are eligible for next seasons competition whilst those that are not, have already got their successor within our roster.
Leicester will be a very tough opponent in the semi-final, like us their first team is pushing hard in the league, whilst their youth team has plenty of depth. As we alluded to when we got to the last 16, anything more was a bonus and certainly ahead of our own expectations for this seasons competition. Over two legs anything can happen, and with Barcelona and Levante also in the last four we are rank outsiders to progress any further.

Espanyol face Sampdoria in the quarter finals of the youth cup tomorrow, however its the next generation of youth which has the manager excited rather than the current crop.

"We've assembled a decent side this time around but if we dig deeper into our squad we've some really exciting prospects yet to taste action in the youth team and we are excited to have them"

Aaron Hickey 20 (signed in december but due to join soon) - Hickey is a well known name and we dug deep to capture him as we see him as our long term RB solution. On the back of his capture we sanctioned the Sale of Mario, given our confidence in how far he can go. Despite his young age his career has seen him swap Scotland for Italy, and Italy for the premier league and Brentford. Sadly this season he has had a few injuries, however with time very much on his side he will prove to be a crucial capture for us.

Yan Phillipe 18 - relatively unknown and picked up from Atletico Mineiro unchallenged, the exciting central midfielder is highly rated in his homeland. His first professional contract has an incredible £56 million release clause given how much his team rate his chances. Manchester City have already tried twice to grab the youngster whose stock is rising after an impressive Copinha which has seen him create 2 goals and also score two from his 5 games. Very much one for the long term and with age very much on his side is a welcome addition to Espanyol.

Fares Chaibi 20 - Picked up from under tge radar from Leicester as part of the Caicedo sale, Chaibi is a player having a massive impact in his debut season in france. The young Algerian already had 5 goals to his name and a number of assist for Toulouse. His stock is rising by the day with a number of Europes Elite looking to capture him. Yet to fearure for our current youth team, he is likely to be breaking through next season.

Eliesse Ben Seghir 17 - Of all our captures this season this is the one we are most excited by. He is joining from Valencia as part of the Locatelli deal, but the one player which swung it for us. His explosive arrival to first team football at Monaco has seen him grab 3 goals already, and is being courted as one of the very best to have come through their youth set up. At 17 to already have minutes and goals to his name within the top division in france, is testament to how they feel about him. I'm sure the interest to try and steal him from us will mount over the next 12 months, but he is one we wont be in a hurry to part with.

Kaide Gordon 18- It seems a long time since Gordon burst on the scene at Liverpool following his big money capture from Derby. He had injury problems this season but is close to a return. We paid heavily to secure him from Sunderland at the beginning of the season as he has bags of potential and we are confident he will prove to be a bargain long term.

Brandon Soppy 20. The Atalanta fullback agreed to join Espanyol at the beginning of January from Partizan, and although still raw and in and out of the Atalanta side. He is a great prospect to have for our youth team next season. His 84 rating will boost our numbers, but gives us another long term full back option.

Mohamed El Arouch 18 - Its not every day you get to bring a top youth player back, but El Arouch who we previously sacrificed in a deal with Chelsea is returning as part of another deal. Yet to start for Lyon, but has long been courted as the very best their Academy has produced, he certainly ticks the boxes as a possible break out player. He has some way to go before he can be considered a starter for our youth team, but at only 18 is a prospect worth having in the background to monitor progression IRL for when he gets that all important chance at Lyon.

Gustav Christensen 18 - A player we gambled on moving external to bring back, we are delighted to still have him on our books. A player who has already tasted European football, but has been breaking record after record in the youth set ups in Denmark from an attacking left position. He has already hit 20 goals in 15 games this season for his parent clubs youth team. Liverpool are one of a few clubs who are monitoring him having sent scouts to watch him quite a bit in recent times. Although not rated high enough to be part of our youth team yet, we fully expect some progression on his rating over the next couple of years.

Nicolo Turco 19 - Is not far off from the Juventus first team set up, after some eye-catching performances for the under 23s. Alteady capped at Various age groups for Italy his progression to the fore is likely to come sooner rather than later on his current path.

Franca Wesley 19 - The Brazilan right back is set to join Barcelona in real life in the summer after their failed attempts in January. Already broken into the Flamengo first team he is another young full back Espanyol moved to capture with long long term planning the thought process.

Quilindschy Hartman 21- Very much the first choice left back at dutch leaders Feyenoord, he is seen as one likely to rise through the ratings quicker than others and become a potential option in next seasons youth cup. Captured earlier this season in the Mkhitaryan sale, he is one the manager is thrilled to pulled off again very much under the radar.

Julian Fernandez 19 - The Argentinian wonder kid was captured before this season started however due to him being transfer banned until 2023, only joined in January. Already a break out star for Velez , and a regular for both them and the Argentina under 20s, he is seen as one who will be in the heart of the youth team picture next season. Espanyol have already knocked back bids for him from other clubs and was an expensive signing at the time having given a 90 rated Traore to Sunderland to capture him. Its going to take a big offer for Espanyol to even consider parting with, with him expected to become a big player for the next 6 or so youth cups

Artem Karpukas 20 - Another player captured external who continues to remain under the radar. He has made a number of list for the top 10 wonderkid midfielders to watch in 2023. Already a regurlar for Loco Moscow, and got his first taste if youth cup action last time out against Milan coming off the bench and scoring. He is seen as possible Gem who wont stay off the radar much longer.

Arouna Sangante 20 - is part of one of the tightest defences in france at Le Havre. The big clubs are circling for the Senegalese player who has already amasses 1890 first team minutes this season. Centre backs are so hard to find, and in Sangante we believe with his age and first team experience we already have a star in the making for in the first instance the youth cup, but long term the first team.