RCD Espanyol finalized their summer transfer business on Tuesday with a departure and a last-minute arrival. According to a report from sports.yahoo.com, right-back Rubén Sánchez was sold to Elche CF, while the Catalan club managed to sign a winger from a La Liga rival to bolster their attack.
The team managed by Manolo González currently sits 12th in the table, with 3 points from one win and two losses in their first three matches. Their next fixture is this Sunday at the RCDE Stadium against sixth-placed Sevilla, in a matchday four clash.
Who left Espanyol on deadline day?
Rubén Sánchez leaves Espanyol following the agreement reached with Elche CF. The defender, who joined the Catalan club in 2024, signed a contract with the Elche side tying him to the club until June 2029, with an option for an additional season. Elche's official statement, cited by Yahoo Sports, noted the player "joins the Green and Whites to bolster the defence and begin a new chapter at the Martínez Valero stadium".
Sánchez's departure comes as Espanyol looks to solidify a defensive line that has conceded 4 goals so far this season. The full-back had not been a starter in the opening matches of the 2026/27 campaign. Fans can check the updated squad on our squad page.
Which reinforcement arrived at the RCDE Stadium?
In the opposite direction, Espanyol secured the loan of a winger from a top-flight Spanish club. The signing was finalized in the final hours of Tuesday, although the club has not yet officially announced the player's identity. Initial information from sports.yahoo.com indicated it was a move between direct La Liga EA Sports rivals.
The arrival of this player aims to add more depth and an attacking option to a team that has scored 5 goals in its first three games. The new winger could have chances to debut soon, given the team has a confirmed absence in that position with Andoni Gorosabel injured. The team's injury updates can be followed in our injuries section.
How does the team arrive after the defeat in Anoeta?
Espanyol approaches this home match after a 2-1 loss to Real Sociedad on matchday three. Cadena SER detailed that Manolo González's side, which started the season with a win against Levante, suffered its second consecutive defeat. The temporary equalizer was scored by Roberto Fernández just before halftime, but Orri Oskarsson netted the winning goal for the hosts in the 62nd minute.
With this result, Espanyol finds itself 6 points behind leaders Barcelona. The team showed areas for improvement in its play, especially in the defensive phase, which it will need to polish for the clash against Sevilla. The full La Liga standings are available at standings.
What issues does Sevilla have for the match?
Sunday's opponents, Sevilla, arrive with doubts over the availability of their winger Rubén Vargas. ABC Deportes reported that the Swiss footballer missed training again this week due to discomfort in his knee. His presence at the RCDE Stadium match is therefore uncertain.
On the other hand, one of Sevilla's late signings, Félix Correia, declared himself ready to play. In comments to Mundo Deportivo, the Portuguese winger stated, "I am prepared to play on Sunday. I played a few days ago and I can help the team." Correia arrived on loan from Lille and had match fitness from his time in France.
The match between Espanyol and Sevilla will be played on Sunday, September 6, 2026, at the RCDE Stadium. The perico team will be looking to earn its first home points of the season against a direct rival in the table.
