Espanyol and Elche: The Surprise Sparks of LaLiga’s 2025 Season

With 11 games played in the current LaLiga campaign, both Espanyol and Elche have emerged as two of the division’s most impressive stories. Espanyol sit sixth on 18 points, while newly promoted Elche occupy ninth with a solid 14 points — remarkable positions for two clubs who were battling at opposite ends of the table just months ago.

A Remarkable Turnaround

For Espanyol, the transformation has been especially dramatic. Last season they avoided relegation by just two points, scraping to a 14th-place finish that masked a year of constant struggle.

Now, under the guidance of José Manuel “Manolo” González Álvarez, the Catalan side have rediscovered their identity. González has built a flexible system that allows Espanyol to adapt mid-game, making them far more resilient and unpredictable.

On opening day against Atlético Madrid, their aggressive pressing and tactical fluidity caught Diego Simeone’s men completely off guard — an early sign of how far this team had come.

Structure and Style

Espanyol have found success with an attacking 3-2-4-1 formation, allowing them to overload opposition defences while maintaining a solid defensive base. Out of possession, they shift to a compact 4-2-3-1, emphasizing a disciplined back line and quick transitions from defence to attack.

Their tactical evolution is reflected in the numbers: only three defeats so far this season — to Real Madrid, Real Betis, and Alavés. Considering Espanyol lost star goalkeeper Joan García to rivals Barcelona over the summer, their progress is even more impressive.

Young English winger Tyrhys Dolan has been a standout for his energy and work rate, while Javi Puado and Pere Milla have been key contributors in attack. González’s system has given the team balance, identity, and belief — all of which were missing a year ago.

Elche: The Entertainers Return

If Espanyol have impressed with structure, Elche have dazzled with style. Under Eder Sarabia, the newly promoted side have become one of LaLiga’s most entertaining outfits.

Sarabia’s footballing philosophy — heavily influenced by his time alongside Quique Setién at Las Palmas, Real Betis, and Barcelona — is rooted in brave, possession-based play. His Elche side refuse to abandon their principles, even against stronger opposition.

Losses to Alavés and Espanyol were followed by an away trip to Barcelona, where Elche again stuck to their attacking ideals. That fearlessness has earned them plaudits across Spain.

Courage and Creativity

Sarabia’s mantra is simple: be brave. His team press high, build from the back, and play with freedom. Before their defeat to Alavés, Elche were unbeaten, claiming draws at Sevilla and Osasuna, and holding Athletic Club at home.

This bold approach has made them unpredictable — and dangerous. Opponents know they’ll have chances against Elche, but they also know Sarabia’s side will attack relentlessly in return.

Much of Elche’s play begins with on-loan Barcelona goalkeeper Iñaki Peña, whose distribution from the back is central to their build-up. His precise short passing and ability to pick out teammates have allowed Elche to progress the ball fluidly and dictate tempo.

Centre-back David Affengruber often initiates forward moves, while Aleix Febas brings creativity and flair in the final third. Against Levante, Elche held an astonishing 95% possession in the first 20 minutes — a clear statement of intent.

A Breath of Fresh Air

It’s easy to forget that in their last LaLiga campaign, Elche took 20 matches to earn a single win and finished 12 points adrift at the bottom. Now, they’re one of the league’s most enjoyable sides to watch — a testament to Sarabia’s conviction and the squad’s belief.

Both Espanyol and Elche have reminded Spanish football what can happen when clubs commit to identity, courage, and intelligent coaching. Whether or not they can maintain this form remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: their resurgence has brought a refreshing energy to LaLiga.

Win, lose, or draw — both sets of supporters have every reason to enjoy the ride.