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“It is a match that excites us”
Luis Miguel Ramis anticipates the 2024 opener with the visit of Getafe in the Copa del Rey
The winter break is over, 2024 is underway and it is time for the football to return, as RCD Espanyol take on Getafe in the Copa del Rey on Saturday.
Speaking ahead of the round of 32 tie, coach Luis Miguel Ramis was as excited to be back in action as much as the opportunity to keep fighting in the cup.
Ramis said, “The team’s work, commitment and responsibility is good, and it is a match that excites us, against a First Division team. We have to be in a position to take it on and progress to the next round. I would like us to look more like what we want to be as a team, both I and the squad are clear about where we have to go”.
Espanyol welcome Getafe to the Stage Front Stadium on a special day in Barcelona: Dia de Reis, or Epiphany, where they will hope to be backed by a big crowd. They arrive at this stage having beaten fourth-tier side CD Mensajero and promotion rivals Real Valladolid in the previous rounds, now taking on a side from the first tier.
Ramis spoke of opponent Getafe, “They are the team that most closely resembles what their coach wants, and they do it very well. They are aggressive with the ball and without it, very intense in pressure, get the ball back well and into the final third. They are a First Division team with good players and they will be difficult to beat, but we are looking forward to facing a team from a higher league”.
The coach concluded by touching on the winter transfer window, which opened on New Year’s Day. Ramis said, “All teams are open to these markets, but they are difficult. We took a while to decide so as not to make mistakes because it is a defining market for the rest of the season and because sometimes you cannot get what you want. We have to be aware of our options, but we don't want to rush; I am happy with the squad we have”.