Manolo Gonzalez defends Espanyol after José Mourinho alleges plan to target Vinicius Jr

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·23 August 2026

Manolo Gonzalez has defended Espanyol after José Mourinho alleged a premeditated plan against Vinicius Junior.

According to L'Équipe, Mourinho said the approach was mapped out from the start of the match to target him.

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In response, the Espanyol coach defended his players and their conduct.

Mourinho’s claim focused specifically on how Vinicius Junior was treated.

Gonzalez’s stance amounted to a direct rebuttal of that accusation.

Source: L'Équipe

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