Iñigo doesn't trust Espanyol's crisis

Villarreal manager Iñigo Pérez warns not to underestimate Espanyol despite their recent managerial change, expecting an aggressive response from the newly-coached side.

Villarreal manager Iñigo Pérez held his pre-match press conference ahead of Thursday's fixture against Espanyol, emphasizing the importance of consolidating home results to build team confidence and solidity.

Pérez acknowledged Espanyol's recent managerial change but cautioned against assuming the crisis-hit side will be weakened. He expects a highly motivated opponent desperate to change their sporting situation and restore confidence to their supporters following Manolo González's departure. "I don't expect anything other than a match of very high aggression, wanting to get out of this sporting situation, wanting to show themselves, wanting to change the momentum," he said.

The Villarreal boss highlighted his team's away form, noting they show no fear at any stadium, but stressed the priority of stabilizing home performances. He also praised his side's pressing statistics and defensive recoveries in the opponent's half, while acknowledging a lack of precision in attack despite creating clear chances in recent matches. Iñigo confirmed absences for Ilias and Saliba, with Pape Gueye already sidelined.