Almeida and Stoian to Partizan for Dia

Duda for Paulo, Karlsson and Philipe

⁷After a season of great transition Espanyol go into the end of season with next seasons plans already fulfilled. Next season they will enter the youth cup for the first time under the current managers guidance, with a roster of no fewer than 30 under 21 players. "Its took a long time to build a non existent youth team for the long term stability of the club and ultimately we've had to sacrifice including our division 1 status. However we embark on a new chapter in division 2 with the roots well in trully in the ground."
It would be difficult to argue the managers point when we take a closer look.

Prestinanni age 16 - Now ranked as the 3rd most valuable player born in 2016. A player who has already made his first team breakthrough in the top flight in Argentina and has represented his country already in various age groups. Its scary to think he does not turn 17 until the new year and is seen as one of the clubs most valuable assets.

Damjanic age 16- A croatian youth international who has gone under the radar to date, but great things are expected of the young centre back. With time very much on his side, he is one who will start to blossom over the coming years.

Ashley Phillips - Age 17, already deemed as one of the most valuable players born in 2005 in world football, he is already a regurlar at both club and country with him now being elevated as first choice for England under 19's despite only just turning 17. Manchester united, Chelsea and Spurs all attempted to prevent him signing his first professional contract with Blackburn this winter, offering substantial wages. However he opted to stay which has conincided with his first team breakthrough.

Nicolo Tresoldi age 18 - The Hannover star is having a breakthrough season in Germany and is playing regurlar. From Italian descent his ability to pick out the right ball and creative flair saw him make his debut for Germany under 19s this month. Seen as a centre forward, there is a lot of hype around the player and having just turned 18, is one who will start to become a little more known over the next couple of seasons.

Kevin Keben 18 - The Cameroonian has broke into the first team at Toulouse this season after a promising time in their youth set up. An imposing 6ft2 Centre back, with top flight minutes under his belt in France, he is one seen as a bit of a wild card by the club as a potential break out star in the making.

Juan Carlos Guato 18- Argentina has been a hunting ground the manager knows well and made the move to snap up Gauto in August. Now an important part of Huracan's first team and Argentina under 20 side the talented wide player is highly rated in his country and along with Prestinanni is part of a potential new golden generation of Argentinian stars.

Jewison Bennette 18.- a full international with 7 caps already for Costa Rica which included 2 goals against a star studded South Korea recently, he will go to the world cup this winter on a stage where he can announce to the world what he is all about. A recent transfer to Sunderland sees him now plying his trade in a competitive Championship. He is lightening quick, tricky and having not long turned 18, is one of the more likely members of the youth team to make an impact in next seasons top100 youth cup.

Tim Oermann 19 - Bochum's struggles in the Bundesliga has a created a recent path for Oermann to break into the first team at the heart of their defence. Still very Raw and could be anything. However to be getting minutes already in the top flight of Germany, time is very much on his side. Seen as a long term prospect by Espanyol he will no doubt get some minutes in the youth cup next season.

Mario Mitaj 19 - just turned 19 and already a full international for Albania, the manager expects the young left back to be part of both the youth cup and first team cup sides next season. Plying his trade in the top flight in Russia, an international footballer, and just 19, there is not much to not like regarding his potential.

Ignacio Maestro Puch 19 - Another Argentinian that the Manager was thrilled to land. Highly rated in his country and already playing for his country and club as part of the team which has been challenging for the title this season he is seen as one who will start going up through the ratings sooner rather than later. The team has some talented youth centre forwards, and Puch is very much in there as one of the most promising on Espanyol's books.

Rios Novo 20 - Getting a decent youth keeper has taken an age, but in Novo Espanyol have one with now over 40 first team games in the top flight and over 20 caps at different age groups for Argentina. "He is still very much learning the game, but has had so much first team exposure for one so young. He is continuing to improve and was the Catalyst of us opting to enter the youth cup next season"

Maksim Mukhin 20 - One of the young stars of Russia both at club and Country, the versatile midfielder has been recently snapped up from Shakhter by Espanyol. Seen as a key part of the youth team, Mukhin is a player seen as someone who will at some point make the first team in the league and will be part of the cup teams next season too. "Was a player we pushed to sign when opting to let a few very talented players head the other way. I like the look of him and has a massive future in the game"

Ezequiel Fernandez 20 - Espanyol paid big to capture the Argentinian midfielder last close season when just a 73 rated midfielder. Well scouted and courted by the manager, it was enough of a reason to swap him for Perraud which at the time may have looked expensive. However Fernandez has gone on to make 41 first team appearances at club level in Argentina this season and is seen as one who will really break out this forthcoming season to cement his place in both the youth and cup team. "Really like this lad, and no doubt the suitors will start to line up as next season progresses given how well he is doing at both club and international.

Matias Galarza 20 - Another Argentinian snapped up cheaply who has already made a £6 million move to Belgium since signing for Espanyol after some startling performances in Argentina. The attacking midfielder cites De Bruyne as a player he tries to model his game on, and the reason he chose to join Genk given thats where KDB started off. "He has had a big move already and i'm sure this will see his stock and rating grow. We are hoping he will progress during the youth cup in rating and become a key player in that competition"

Moises Caicedo 20. If you are gonna spend big on a youth player then make him a good one, was the statement Espanyol put down when securing the signature of Ecuadorian international Caicedo. Flying at Brighton, all the top clubs in England are hovering to make him the next big money signing for their squads. Within an hour of Espanyol signing the player the team was offered 90 plus players from two clubs to secure him next. However he is seen as a long term investment and future club captain. "You can never say never when it comes to selling players, but in Caicedo's case it would take something incredible to even entertain the thought. He is a player we desperately wanted, one we thought was out of reach and one we gave top players for. I fully expect him to be in and around our first team this season and with Vencedor gives us a strong youth team Centre midfield".

Moses Usor 20 - We've been tracking his career with interest and was waiting for him to be added to the database. We was very surprised that only us and Leicester went for him and then pleasantly surprised when Leicester pulled out by accident leaving us alone to snap him up. He has velcro boots and when in full flight on the dribble a tricky player to stop. We are expecting big things from him and are delighted his future is here at Espanyol

Jan Thielmann - Football Golden boy shortlister the talented German under 21 international is already the darling of Koln and making a massive impact in the Bundesliga. "We are patiently waiting for his stock, value and ratings to keep rising. He is without doubt the one player we have in the youth who is going to be interesting more and more clubs over the next season or two. Another who we paid a lot for when getting him from Liverpool when Wijnaldrum headed out the door. He was a purchase with the long term very much on our mind".

Konstantin Tyukavin 20 - another of the golden generation of Russia, this tricky centre forward is already a full international and established first team player in the top flight in Russia. We are at that time where strikers are getting old and it is hoped that Tyukavin at some point will get that big move in real life which has been courted for the last 18 months. He has undoubted talent and at just 20 the potential to be be a star.

Flavius Daniliuc 21 - The versatile Austrain international has been one with a big reputation for a while. A summer move to the top flight in Italy has seen him establish himself as a mainstay at the back for Salernitana. "Daniliuc will be a key player for us in both the youth and first team cups next season. He continues to mature and we are hoping at some point will come into the first team reckoning given his ability to play anywhere across the back and also in central midfield"

Unai Vencedor 21 - our highest rated youth player for next season at 87, we brought him in for Fofana from Barcelona with one eye on the long term future. A member of our first team squad also, he got minutes for us this season and also found the net. He had undoubted talent and time on his side. We've had a few offers this season for him, but unless someone is offerinf a 90 plus player, they can forget it. He is one for the long term and will be key for us in the youth cup"

Yuri Alberto 21 - recently brought back to the club , the talented Brazilian scores goals for fun and is already very valuable in real life. This time he is back to stay and will lead our youth team atrack next season. We see him as one of our long term first choice striker options with Kolo Muani and is the main reason we opted to go with Southampton's offer on Trossard. The Russian war has seen him return to Brazil on loan, but I do not expect it to be too long before he ends up in one of the bigger leagues in Europe.

Yorbe Vertessen 21 - we have tracked the Belgium youngster for a while and in terms of purchases letting Gonzalez go as part of the deak which saw us bag Vertessen was not a decision we took lightly. He has talent, an eye for goal an very versatile. He will give us good options in the youth cup, but also has the potential to become part of our first team in seasons to come. Already capped at all age groups by Belgium, and playing first team for PSV in holland, he has it all in his path to kick on.

Jamie Leweling 21 - The highly rated German under 2-1 International is also joning us this close season. A youth team starter and first team cup starter, he now needs to show the early promise his career was showing. An 84 rated youth player shows there is potential in there and hopefully over the next year he can start to fulfil that early promise.

Akinkunki Amoo 20 - A deal was agreed for his signature before the start of last season and will finally join this close season after the 3 club deal rule delayed this one. Sadly an injury in real life has slowed his progress over the last few months, following a club record move to Copenhagen. Still only 20, with plenty of first team games and international recognition, we are hoping over the next year he gets back to showing everyone what he can do.

Nicolas Castro 21 - another Argentina who made a big money move to Genk, and is joining us from Standard Liege. He is eligible for the youth cup and has a big reputation. We are hoping that promise shown in Argentina continues in belgium and he can continue to rise the ratings.

Guiliano Simeone - 19 , son of Argentine legend Diego Simeone and 29 goals in 51 games for Athletico Madrids b team, he has been loaned to Real Zaragoza this season and has continued to score on a regular basis. "We see him as an exceptional talent. He knows where the net is and being a big club in real life is a massive plus. We expect him to rise this season, but it will probably be a season or two before we really see what we have on our hands here"

We've reached the half-way stage of the season, and a re-vamped Espanyol continue to defy the odds in Division 1, as they currently sit 9th with just 6 defeats this season. With a free-hit season in the bag after last seasons astonishing 6th place finish, we take a look at the young guns hoping to shape the clubs future.

Ashley Phillips

Having turned just 17 in June, its been a breakout season for the England under 17 international as he has started Blackburn Rovers last 5 games at centre back. Yet to pen his first pro-deal the exciting centre back who stands at a remarkable 6ft 4, and continues to grow is currently being chased by Spurs, Chelsea and Manchester United who all want to secure the teenage centre back prior to the closure of the transfer window next week. Rovers are currently locked in talks over a better offer of a contract after the previously agreed deal which was due to kick in on his 17th birthday, has been subject to negotiation after the player received international honours for England last season. Phillips was a player very much on Espanyol's radar last season, and when the opportunity came, Espanyol spent big to secure the youngster as Rincon and exciting young forward Sima headed to Italy to aid securing at the time a player yet experience first team football. He has recently got his first sm rise which was a modest plus 5, however his stock is rising and with huge things expected, it would take a massive offer for Espanyol to consider parting with one of the most talked about teenagers outside the Premiership in England

GIANLUCA PRESTIANNI

The Argentine wonderkid is currently being chased by Real Madrid, Barcelona, Chelsea and AC Milan as Europe's giants look to try and secure a player who is already being touted to be Lionel Messi's long term successor as the darling of Argentina. Its incredible that despite only being 16 and not 17 until next year that the exciting teenager is already playing first team football in the top flight of Argentina. The Velez Sarzfield star is the youngest player to ever play first team football for Velez and is the second youngest player of all time to play in the top flight in Argentina, 2nd only to the one and only "Sergio Aguero". "We've had a few enquiries for Prestianni, since he arrived, but some of the offers have been completely laughable and if anything insult my intelligence. He is certainly the jewel of the crown within my youth team, and with his age has the potential to be one of the very best. He is impressing at international level in the lower age groups, and is very much the star of the Argentina's under 17's. We expect the interest to get larger for the player over the next couple of seasons, but like Phillips he is one we won't be letting go on the cheap, and at present his potential is priceless"

NICOLO TRESOLDI

Having just turned 18 and currently plying his trade in Germany with Hannover, the Italian striker is catching the eye with 4 appearances already this season for Hannover's first team. He signed his first professional contract last week, and is already being touted as one to watch. Tresoldi had been on the radar for a while, however Espanyol were forced to make a move after Chelsea placed a bid last week. Fortunately the player opted for Espanyol and its a capture the manager is pleased with. "Nicola is a clever player, he can play in that 10, as he has excellent vision and can pick a pass out. He is very quick also and is equally at home playing in the number 9 role and leading the attack. Germany has been a hotbed for talent breaking through, and at only 18 he has time on his side to potentially become a big asset for this football club as time evolves.

JAN THEILMANN

Having not long turned 20 the German under 21 international is one very much under the radar a little in top 100 for Espanyol. Currently our on load at Werder Bremen in Top 100 to aid their youth cup side, the exciting youngster is already building up a big reputation in Germany's top flight with his exceptional performances for Koln. Theilmann has already amassed 75 appearances for Koln and has played at Every level for Germany bar the full national team, which he is currently on the brink of. This year is was nominated for the "Golden boy" award which is an award given to the best under 21 player in Europe, which shows how much his stock is rising. Theilmann Joined Espanyol from Liverpool along side Galeno and Amoo in a deal, which saw Wjnaldrum head to Anfield. It was at the time quite a large price given the high rating the Wjnaldrum has. "We had one thought on our mind over the close season, and that was to rebuild the youth team with exciting players. Theilmann ticked those boxes and is probably in terms of where he is right now in his career ahead of many of our young players. We really rate him, and are a little surprised we've had no enquiries for him, given his stock in Germany. His versatility of being able to play down both wings and anywhere in the forward position, gives us some real options as he starts to get the upgrades which eventually puts him in our first team picture. We do have an eye on the youth cup next season, and if we secure an under 21 goalkeeper, its a competition we are likely to enter, and Thielmann will be a great player to have available for us"

FLAVIUS DANILIUC

Daniliuc who plays for Nice in real life is a defender with a big future. Comfortable in any position across the back, but also as a holding midfielder, he has become a fixture in the Nice side, whilst also playing at every level for Austria. Espanyol have some decent defensive prospects but Daniliuc is the one which the club hold the highest hope for, to progress into being one day a 90 plus defender. "He is another we paid big for parting with Alonso, our first choice left back to secure. We are not afraid to part with first team players for youngsters, as we look at the bigger picture and try to offer value to the selling club. We have had a couple of enquiries for him, and although he is currently out on loan from us at Hamburger we can't say "never" if the an offer comes in which meets our valuation. Given what we paid for him, this should warn teams off, that we won't be giving our best young players away"

ORKUN KOKCU

Kokcu arrived yesterday after a deal was agreed with Standard Liege a few weeks ago. Despite being only 21, he already has 16 full caps for Turkey, and is currently being linked with big money moves away from parent club Feyenoord. Kokcu is a central midfield player who can plays the anchor role to perfection. His passing range, ability to assist, and ability to score goals makes him a stand-out signing for us. Although still classed as a youth player, he will go straight into our starting line up, to play with Douglas Luiz. I've secured some players in top 100, but this capture is one of the ones I'm most pleased with. It ticks all the right boxes, in terms of age, sell on value, and improvement potential. I'm pretty sure once his transferban is up we will start receiving offers for him. However he is part of the long term plan, and its highly unlikely now we've secured him, that we'd entertain selling him"

NICO GONZALEZ

Another captured from Standard Liege, the Spanish under 21 star was one of our main targets this close season. Despite playing 37 games for Barcelona in real life last season, he opted to push for a loan move to ensure he continued to play regular first team football and will this season play for Valencia in La Liga and has already made a good start for them. Barcelona rate him very highly and have an astonishing £500 Million buy-out clause in his contract. He is still only 20 and a Spanish under 21 international, with great potential to become a big player for the Spain first team in the years to come. He is already in and around our first team, and we are excited to have him. Its not often I sign a player who I will not consider selling, but at present he falls in the bracket. He alongside the likes of Kokcu and Vencedor are the long term future of our midfield engine room, and its very exciting"

UNAI VENCEDOR

Vencedor became the first deal we have done with Barcelona as he swapped places with Fofana, a player we rated very highly earlier this month. He has already made starts for us in division 1, whilst also scoring his first goal. Despite being only 21 and a current spanish under 21 international Vencedor has already amassed 134 appearances for Athletic Bilbao. We were thrilled when Barcelona said yes to our proposal and his presence in our youth team, is really starting to give it a strong look. We look forward to seeing how he progresses over the next 12 months and could prove to be one of the best deals we've ever pulled off.

MATIAS GALARZA

Another Argentine wonderkid, he recently made a big money move to Genk. An attacking midfielder who the craft of unlocking defences, his move to Belgium was certainly a bonus for us having secured him for very little money prior to his rise. He is very much now in the shop window in Europe and has the potential to step up to become a full international for Argentina. His is a player we had some enquiries for prior to his move to Genk, and I'm sure those calls will become louder over the next 12 months. The issue with youth players on SM, Is so many other Managers want to offer more youth for them, or put low ball offers in, hoping you've had one too many beers before answering the bid. Galarza is up there with Prestianni of being a key talent for us, and only an offer we cannot refuse would see us let him go. We are trying to build for the future and don't need to sell anyone right now, especially for droppers or players with nowhere near as much potential. I like Galarza and look forwards to see him move up through the ratings.

JOSE MANUEL LOPEZ

Lopez was a big target for us for a while, and we was delighted when we struck a deal with Chelsea. Although we are awaiting to complete the deal, his big money move to Palmeiras this summer shows how highly he is rated in South America. He will add quality to the youth team, and with the likes of Dzeko coming to the end of their careers, we are hopeful over the next couple of seasons, he will progress enough to become part of the first team squad. There is never any guarantee's with South American footballers, but the fact he has swapped the Argentina league for the Brazilian one, shows he is rated high enough in South America to become a real player.

With the new season nearly upon us, today we take a closer look at two 16 year olds who Espanyol will be hoping can develop into big stars in the years to come.

Ashley Phillips - Having long been a target for the manager, his arrival at Espanyol was this week turned into reality as new Atalanta boss Daniel Wythe santioned the move which has seen veteran midfielder Rincon and exciting forward prospect Sima move to Italy. On the face of it, its a big price for a boy who has not even made the first team bench in real life at Blackburn.

Philips despite only being 16, has a commanding pressence. At 6ft 4 he is good in the air but also has a tremendous turn of pace and is comfortable with both feet. Manchester United, Chelsea, Spurs and Man City are all keen on the youngster with £3 million valuations already being banded about. Many kids get hyped up, but there does appear to be far more substance in Ashleys ability. Already an established member of Blackburns under 23 squad, the world does appear to be his oyster if that development continues and if so, that high price may just prove to be one of the best bits of business the club does.

"I've followed Ashley's development with intrigue, not since the days of Damian Duff has a player caught the eye at Rovers academy more than Phillips. An academy which has produced the likes of Phil Jones, there is so much excitement at the possibilities this kid could bring. Obviously only being 16, and already being talked up brings pressures to young shoulders. However he is in the right surroundings at present and it would serve him better to stay at Blackburn and try and break into the first team picture. For us at Espanyol, i'm under no doubt the vultures will be circling over the next 18 months to try and pick him up on the cheap. We've paid big for an untested 16 year old, and ultimately when that day comes where we have to consider his departure, then it will be a hefty asking price, providing that promise starts looking like a sure thing"

Gianluca Prestinanni - Arrived at Espanyol through one of the new database addition lotteries. I always feel if you are going to win one of these lotteries then make it a good one. Gianluca has already made his first team debut at Velez Sarsfield, and is the second youngest Argentinian player to ever feature in the Libertadores after one other former Espanyol player Sergio Aguero. Predominantly a winger but comfortable across all attacking areas he is thought of very highly in his homeland, and has already played for the national side at under 17s, with 2 goals in 5 appearances.

"Its scary to think he does not turn 17 until the end of January next year, and yet has already tasted top flight football in Argentina. He is very much one for the future, and with time on his side we will watch with great interest how his future develops. We've a number of Argentinian youngsters on our books now with Galoppo, Hernandez, Galarza, Schor, Orellano and Garces. Some are further along than others, with Galoppo probably looking like our next break through player, with moves to Napoli and Sampdoria muted, whilst he has started the season on fire in his native Argentina. The south American market is always a gamble, as players tend to need that move to Europe to start pinging up the ratings chart. However the big European clubs are always watching as we've seen with Alvarez joining Man City in real life. In Prestianni we have another with the right profile to become a real player over the next 3 or 4 years. Its long term planning, without early reward, which as a club is the model we are looking to adopt. Sitting on these players will bring long term benefit to the club on a whole, we can pack them into the youth set up, and forget about them. Some will mature quicker than others, and some will just fall off the radar, with young players there are no guarantees. Having a decent pool of players from a particular country helps too at update time, as they get reassessed at the same time and can potentially give you a decent boost in one foul swoop.

The lights have barely gone out on season 17, but manager Mullan is already on with finalising his squad for the new season. A 6th place finish and a European trophy in his first full season, could never have been predicted by even the most optimistic person, however the gaffer is not expecting any sort of repeat in season 18, as he looks to maximise his contract free-hit.

"When i arrived here we had the oldest squad in the division, lots joke about the "wheeling and dealing" but to get the age of the squad down, remain competitive whilst getting every ounce of value out of players in decline is no easy task. We will go into season 18 with just 7 players aged 30 or over, and an incredible 26 players 22 or under. To be in the position of having 43 players under the age of 27 with bags of potential it really does set us up for a number of seasons to come.

Yes the team is not littered with household names just yet, but if you scratch under the surface we've got a few hidden gems with significant potential and with some database updates to come, i'm really hopeful the hit we are taking this season comes off.

I think people will see a different Espanyol going forwards as transfer activity becomes minimal. We've put a lot of work into doing well over 150 deals in a season and half, to do what was needed, reduce the age of the squad and change the outlook from a side whose players were on the decline, to now be a side with players who can only get better.

Looking ahead to next season, its all about staying up for us, which some would say is a disaster if we just stay up, given our unlikely 6th place position this season. We are ahead of programme in terms of the 3 and half season plan I have. Although we are very thin on the ground in ratings now, there is always method to my madness. Its now time for a new Bonucci or Suarez or D'maria to rise from our young pool. We've signed some promise but also some players already making a name for themselves. I'm particularly excited on how far players like Lukeba and Stiller can go, whilst we've also picked up some exciting young south american footballers, who will no doubt get rises in the next update. We are going to need a bit of luck with the updates on one or two of the older players to keep us competitive this season, and there are much better 1-11s in the division. That being said, you need more than just ratings in a competitive gameworld, you have to put the hours in and you have to be willing to change things about for different games. I'm a firm believer that if you put the work in, you will get the rewards.

There has been some big business done elsewhere, as teams look to strengthen and managers with new clubs, look to put their own stamp on their squads. I felt going into last season we'd see new champions and other teams starting to emerge. That proved to be the case, and i think this season we are going to see those gaps close again. With other teams coming into the top 6 picture and upsetting the form book. I think we will see a much different Arsenal and Benfica next season and those two for me, will be up there in that top 6, which adds pressure to the others to stay in that elite group. At the other end we need to ensure we are not next seasons Hertha. I think 6 or 7 teams could definitely fall into that category based on current transfers completed, and overall balance of their sides. Whatever happens next season, i think we are possibly going to see the most competitive division 1 yet"

Its been a roller coaster at Espanyol this season. Manager Glen Mullan who joined from Napoli midway through last season recieved his first full contract with the stipulation of at least a 14th place finish. The squad in general had a decent 1-11 but was always going to struggle with depth and the loss of Sergio Aguero who retired at the end of last season.

The first half of the season was a struggle with Espanyol struggling for goals,and it was only the heroics of Handanovic and the defence keeping the team out of the relegation zone after game 19 saw the club in 17th and with only 21 points. Never affraid to dip into the transfer market, sell key players/assets, Mullan acted swiftly and added Wijnaldrum, Firmino and Suarez to the ranks, sacrificing Oyarzabal, Merino, Pino and Morata.

This proved to be the Catalyst of a much improved second half of the season with the club picking up 37 points from the last 19 games to climb to an unlikely finish of 6th. This included going 16 games unbeaten in the league and Europe and also winning 13 on the trot. In that run the team claimed victories over Chelsea, Porto, Real Madrid and Bayern, whilst also drawing with Juventus.

The grand finale saw Espanyol beat Arsenal in the European Shield 2-0 to secure the clubs first ever trophy and crown an amazing first full season for the manager.

The team ended the season with a run of 8 straight clean sheets and 26 clean sheets for the season giving the team one of the meanest defences in the league.

As the season ends Espanyol have once again completed all their transfer business ahead of next season.

OUT - Alese, Colpani, Charpentier, Gardner-Hickman, Niguez, Vlasic, Barco, Akturkoglu, Aaronson, Suarez, Herrera, Onyango, Nishikawa, Wels, James.

IN Correa, Fofana, Ocampos, Lukeba, Seidu, Aioani, Prestianni, Galarza, Le Douaron, Biancone, Duro, Witzel.

"We got our business done early last pre season and have opted to do so again. We've let some top talent go, but those who are arriving have improvement in them. We do a lot of deals to keep evolving, we have used both internal and external markets, sometimes over paying with the knowledge that in the main most of the squad is under 25. Our reward for exceeding our contract is a free hit next season. We are using this time to move on some players in their Veteran stage, with the focus on players who can improve. Finishing 6th this season which contractually has exceeded where we were estimated to be after 3 seasons gives us a lot of satisfaction given the time and effort we've all put in to keep us evolving. We have sold a few rating and will need some luck on the updates to ensure we dont take too much of a hit next season. Winning the cup, is the icing on the cake and a trophy I won't forget as my first in top100."

With an SMFA European shield Final to come against Arsenal and a 6th place finish in the league secured, the Espanyol supporters and management team are thrilled with whats been one of the clubs best ever seasons.

Last nights 2-0 victory over the Champions Chelsea, set a new club record 7 straight league wins, but also extended the teams unbeaten run to 15. Having only took 21 points from the first 19 games this season, to secure 37 points from the last 19 is some turn around.

There have been some major highlights this season including victories over Chelsea, Real Madrid and Porto, whilst the run to the clubs first ever cup final, has the club daring to dream that they may win their first ever trophy.

A team built on a mean defence with the 4th best defense in division 1, has now found ways to score with veteran striker Luis Suarez recording impressive figures of 11 goals since his mid-season arrival. Meanwhile the manager statistically now holds the clubs best points to game ratio of any manager who has managed Espanyol. When we consider all his games have been in division 1, it makes that stat even more impressive given the club has spent many of the 17 seasoms in top 100 in the lower divisions.

"We were set a contractual finish of 14th this season and next, with a 12th place in season 3. I think when we put that into perspective, to finish 6th in division 1 in the first of these 3 seasons shows how far we've come in my first full season here. Some pretty big clubs, with big stars have finished lower, whilst we've taken 4 points from Chelsea, 4 from Real Madrid, 3 from Porto and also drawn with Juventus. Our close season business is also already agreed which has us looking forward to a quiet break. Monday is a big night for us as we play Arsenal in the cup final, we go into the game in great form, although we are under no illusions how difficult this match will be. We've set our own bar very high here, and have needed to work the transfer market hard to try and remain competitive, whilst keeping one eye on the future. Next season promises to be an even tougher season with all teams continuing to strengthen in their quest to shorten the gaps between the bottom teams and top teams. Some excellent sides are coming up from division 2, whilst we have to ensure we are not next seasons Hertha Berlin, who secured a high finish last season only to get relegated this time around. Since joining top100 its been a slog, from the days of struggling with Napoli to coming to Espanyol and trying to build a team which can compete with the elite. As a Manager i'm confident in my own ability, building successful teams is something i've been accustomed to over the last 12 years. Top100 has certainly been one of my tougher challenges, but its one I enjoy. I have my own style and dont get hung up on any particular player. I'm not affraid to sell my best players, or top young players, if it keeps us competitive. Balance is everything to me, which is probably why we've not suffered with player concerns, i'd rather trade a player who is not a regular than risk them growing unhappy and then lose their potential trade value."

Espanyols 2-0 win over Bayern Munich moved the spanish side into 10th with three games to go, which is a big turnaround from their first half season form.

At the halfway point of the season Espanyol picked up just 21 points from 19 games and looked destined to be embroiled in a relegation battle. The gaffer acted on the teams slump by strengthening the team, which has seen an impressive return of 28 points from the last 15 matches, and a run to the SMFA European Semi finals where they will meet Bayern tonight.

Mullan showed at Napoli that his sides are always good defensively and that is evident this season at Espanyol with the team having the 5th best defensive record with just 35 conceded. Goals at the other end have started to go in too following the arrivals of Suarez, Firmino and Vlasic. As things stand the club is on course to surpas they close season expectations of a 14th place finish.

Squad wise although some experience has been added, Espanyol have 37 players 25 or under including 18 youth players. Of these Mullan has high hopes for a number of these.

Adam Buksa - he is 25 now but clubs in Italy, France and Germany are monitoring his progress after his impressive form in the MSL and his 5 goals in 5 games this season for Poland as Lewandowski's strike partner. His stock is rising and although still some way off impacting the first team he has potential to get a decent rating from his 85 if he gets the big move and continues to thrive on the international scene.

Kerem Akturkoglu- An impressive season in Turkey with Galatasaray and the international set up , he is expected to move to france this summer. He is an exciting prospect who can create and score goals, and a decent move will propel his status and should have him in and around the first team over the next 18 months.

Jan Paul Van Hecke - after a successful loan at Blackburn where he was crowned their player of the year, he is expected to have a breakthrough season at Brighton next season. Despite the riches of defenders in the dutch set up, this past season has seen him get his first under 21 recognition for Holland. "Having watched him live all season, i really think ge can go all the way to the top. He is so composed on the ball and reminds me very much of Vincent Kompany, he is going to continue to rise in value and will become lomg term a regurlar at the heart of our defence"

Brenden Aaronson- Rumoured to be joining Leeds for just under 30 million, his stock continues to rise. Although his long term future may not be at Espanyol as we see him as a big tradeable asset in our quest to add another first team ready centre back, we are certainly not going to push him through the door and are happy to see him continue to rise in ratings.

"This is my first full season at Espanyol and we've pulled off some impressive results against many of the top teams. We are a dangerous opponent for anyone, as we have that quality in the final third, whilst being able to hold our own in midfield. Rating wise, defensively we are weaker than most, however statistically having the 5th best defensive record would point to us having the right balance. We are a long way off being a top 4 side, thats going to take some time, however providing we can keep moving forwards and show progression each season I will be pleased. The updates are going to be important in terms of when some players drop, whilst overs go up. Hopefully we have some cross over so that the gap between player ratings as a whole decreases. We have four goalkeepers now but Handonovic is way out in front on ratings. We believe in the other three, and need the updates to be kind so they can close that rating gap to an acceptable level before Handonovic retires.

Next season we are not expecting to be very active in the transfer market, bar a couple of defenders we are relatively content with our squad. Stability is key now in terms of player churn, The division is getting harder and harder with good teams going down and good teams coming up. I think some continuity going forwards will stand us in good stead."

The two form teams of Division 1 met in the derby as Espanyol arrived at the Nou camp looking to halt Barcelona's resurgence in the title race, whilst trying to cement their own hopes of qualifying for Europe. The away team welcomed back Firmino after his three match ban, but were without influential midfield enforcer Wijnaldrum and left back Alonso. Espanyol tweaked their formation to accomodate Firmino's return and started the game very well.

For the first 20 minutes Espanyol took the game to the homeside with Saul Niguez dictating the midfield and pulling the strings which Barcelona were struggling to contain. Half chances for Niguez and Suarez and bookings for Bellerin and Son were the main highlights of the opening exchanges.

Benzema and Mane then both went clise to breaking the deadlock but couldnt find a way past Handanovic who was once again showing his importance to Espanyol. The breakthrough came in the 40th Minute as one time Espanyol target Odegaard struck a free kick under the wall which beat Handanovic hands down and sent the home crowd wild. It was cruel luck on Espanyol who had more than matched their talented rivals.

The second half was a scrappy affair, as Barcelona continued to kick lumps out of Espanyol which resulted in Lodi being sent off. No further goals came for either team and the result sees Barcelona join Chelsea at the top of the league although second just on goal difference. Espanyol drop down to 10th although are very much in the thick of things in terms of European qualification.

After the game it was revealed that Espanyol's big signing Firmino who has managed just three games in over a month since signing, picked up a bad injury and will miss at least the next four games, D'ambrosio also picked an injury to add to the clubs growing absentee list.

"on paper it was always going to be a tough ask. We ended up having to change our formation and move players into different positions to the ones which had seen us go on this good run. That being said 1-0 against the reigning champions away from home is not the worse result in the world. I'm growing frustrated with the injuries and suspensions though. Every match we have 2 or 3 key players out and just as one comes back you lose another couple. A team like ours can ill afford to be without the likes of Firmino, Wijnaldrum and Suarez. However since arriving all three have missed more games than they've actually played. Hopefully over the next few weeks that can change and all our players can be available for the run in. The table is tight with only a couple of points separating the top 3. I think beyond those three teams, everything is very much up for grabs and its a case of who can put consistency together. We need to get this game out of our system and try and get back to winning ways against Dortmund. At present I dont think many look forwards to playing us. We dont concede many, but have match winners in our squad who on their day can hurt any team. We've recieved two interesting offers for Saul Niguez this week as other teams look to improve their line ups for the run in, however we've rejected both as they dont meet our valuation. All our business is done for the rest of this season with no ins or outs being santioned. We want to cement our own place in the top 10 and have no interest in weakening the team for the run in"

6 wins , 3 draws, 9 unbeaten what a difference a month makes in top100?

Espanyol recorded their biggest win of the season with an impressive 4-0 home win against a good Hertha Berlin side.

Before the game the Espanyol manager spoke about players unavailable but also the impact Vlasic had made since his arrival from Porto. It took just 15 minutes of this fixture for Vlasic to hit the headlines again with a sublime finish in the top scorer after being tee'd up by fellow new arrival Luis Suarez. Niguez went close to making it 2-0 , before another new recruit Ilicic found Weigl who smashed home to extend the home sides lead. It was bittersweet for the manager who had moved Weigl back into midfield from defence to fill in for the absent Wijnaldrum. Hertha had a few half chances to get back in the game before a penalty was awarded on the hour mark, and Suarez made no mistake from the spot to put Espanyol 3-0 up and put the game to bed. In the 65th minute the impressive Vlasic found Suarez who expertly finished to send the home crowd wild and with it conplete the scoring at 4-0.

"every game is tough, even more so when you have players out, however today everything just clicked. It was a painful wait, waiting for Suarez to be available following his transfer to the club. He arrived needing to serve a 3 match ban, but since serving that he has 3 goals in 3 games and a couple of assist. His contribution has made a massive difference. The quality delivery from wide areas that Ilicic and Vlasic have brought too, has us in a really good place at present. The only negative from the game was Alonso getting a booking which means he is now added to the list of players unavailable. We have Barcelona the champions next who are in excellent form. A derby game, and one you'd like to be at full strength for, however its not going to be the case. However we go there under no pressure, in great form and looking to keep our own run of good form going. A month ago we were sat down in 18th place, we were struggling to score goals and in real danger of being embroiled in a relegation scrap. That win against Hertha has now allowed us to open up a 14 gap on 18th whilst putting us in contention for a place in Europe. There is 14 games to go, 42 points to play for and we will be going all guns now to try and secure as many points possible to see if we can exceed this seasons expectations of 14th"