Monchi reshapes Espanyol squad for 2026/27

Monchi has assumed the role of sporting director at RCD Espanyol. He faces his first major puzzle of shaping the 2026/27 roster, which is defined by contract renewals, expiries and a wave of loan returns. The upcoming squad includes several players whose contracts end in summer 2026. Espanyol must decide which of those will stay, depart or be extended. A large number of players are returning from season‑long loans. Those returns add to the challenge of balancing squad depth and wage budget. The club also copes with the loss of midfielder Fran Garagarza, who is sidelined after a heart attack. Garagarza’s absence forces the medical team to monitor his recovery before any roster decision. Monchi’s restructuring will be completed during the summer transfer window. Espanyol aims to enter the 2026/27 campaign with a settled lineup.