Long-serving Sevilla Sporting Director Monchi is poised to take on a new role at Espanyol, pending their La Liga survival, according to reports in the Spanish media. Marca reports that Monchi has reached an agreement with Espanyol to become their sporting director next season, contingent on the club avoiding relegation. He was recently seen attending Espanyol’s 2-0 defeat to Real Madrid last Sunday, invited by owner Alan Pace, as part of ongoing discussions.
Fran Garagarza, Espanyol’s current sporting director, is currently on leave following a heart attack earlier this season and remains in the dark regarding his future, despite having a year remaining on his contract. While Pace has been actively attempting to secure Monchi’s services, no official communication has been given to Garagarza about his position. The potential appointment signifies a major shift in Espanyol's leadership as they battle to maintain their top-flight status.
Monchi’s arrival could also trigger a change in the managerial position at Espanyol. Sport suggests that Monchi would first evaluate the position of current manager Manolo Gonzalez before considering other options. Espanyol are currently enduring a difficult run of form, with a 17-game winless streak, but still have a chance to secure La Liga survival.
One potential managerial replacement identified is Getafe’s Jose Bordalas, who is expected to depart the Coliseum at the end of the season. Monchi reportedly admires Bordalas’ ability to achieve results with limited resources and believes he could elevate Espanyol with increased investment. Monchi and his assistant, Fernando Navarro, are currently assessing several candidates, with Bordalas being a prominent name.
However, a potential complication in Monchi’s move to Espanyol centers around Sergio Ramos’ ongoing negotiations to purchase his former club, Sevilla. Monchi stated on El Chiringuito that ‘if Ramos calls, I’ll have to listen’, indicating a willingness to consider a return to Sevilla if approached. Ramos’ takeover bid is also contingent on Sevilla remaining in La Liga, potentially influencing the timeline and outcome of both deals. The speed at which Ramos’ acquisition of Sevilla progresses could be a deciding factor in Monchi’s final destination.
