Espanyol boss issues strong warning to Barcelona summer signing ahead of derby – ‘Remember Luis Figo…’ | OneFootball

The Catalan derby is already simmering with tension, and Espanyol manager Manolo Gonzalez has added further edge to the build-up with his frank and unapologetic comments. 

With Barcelona set to visit the RCDE Stadium, the spotlight has inevitably fallen on the return of Joan Garcia, who will be back at his former home, this time wearing Blaugrana colours.

In the days leading up to the derby, there has been intense debate over how Garcia will be received by the home supporters. 

Espanyol have already moved to tighten security, confirming that fans will not be allowed into the stadium with bulky items.

Treatment of Joan Garcia

When addressing the media, Manolo Gonzalez touched on a wide range of topics, including expectations surrounding fan behaviour. 

Early on, he made it clear that he would not accept moral lectures from anyone.“No lectures,” he warned, setting the tone for his remarks.

Gonzalez then drew on a famous moment from Spanish football history to underline his point. 

Referring to the hostile reception Luis Figo received when he returned to Camp Nou with Real Madrid, the Espanyol coach argued that derby passion should not be selectively criticised.

“The fans are going to be vocal, naturally. We’re not going to come to the match with bouquets of roses. It’s common sense. 

“Just like when we go to the Camp Nou and they chant ‘Relegation’ at us… It’s no big deal.”

He continued by defending Espanyol supporters against what he sees as unfair scrutiny.

Joan Garcia is set to be in the spotlight. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)

“Everyone is waiting for Espanyol to screw up so they can pounce. No lessons in behaviour. Remember when Luis Figo went to Camp Nou.

“I don’t think they are in a position to lecture anyone. Espanyol fans will behave themselves and the match will be just a football match.”

When asked directly about Joan Garcia’s return and the narrative surrounding the goalkeeper, Gonzalez was blunt and dismissive.

“I don’t care, I don’t care about the issue. I care about winning. I don’t really care about the Joan García issue.”

On the rivalry

The Espanyol boss then shifted the focus back to football and the competitive nature of the fixture. 

Despite the rivalry, he stressed that the derby should remain within sporting limits.

“Tomorrow will be a great derby. We want to beat Barça, and so do they. 

“It’s a great sporting rivalry, and the funny thing is that I have lots of friends who support Barça and we joke around with each other.”

He concluded by explaining the notion that rivalry should not cross certain lines.

“That’s the best part, and it shouldn’t go any further than that. We want to beat them just as much as they want to beat us.”

Source: AS