The Catalan club confirmed that Sarabia has signed a contract running until June 30, 2028, as they move quickly to replace González following Tuesday’s damaging cup exit.
Sestao, who compete in Spain’s fourth tier, eliminated their top-flight opponents with Jon Rojo’s winner in the 121st minute. The defeat came after Espanyol had twice fought back to level the score, only to concede again in extra time.
The result proved decisive for González, whose departure was confirmed by the club later that evening. He had been in charge for more than three seasons and overseen 107 official matches with the first team.
Espanyol thanked the outgoing coach for his work, commitment and professionalism, recognising his role in guiding the club back into LaLiga and keeping them in the top flight over the following seasons.
However, the team’s recent form had placed increasing pressure on González. The Copa del Rey elimination added to the difficulties, leaving the club to make a change as it seeks to improve its position in the league.
Sarabia now inherits the task of stabilising the side and restoring confidence after a damaging run. The 45-year-old has experience in Spanish football and previously managed FC Andorra and Elche, having also worked as an assistant to Quique Setién at Las Palmas, Real Betis and Barcelona.
His appointment brings a coach familiar with possession-based football and the demands of Spanish professional competition. Espanyol will hope he can translate that experience into more consistent results while addressing the defensive problems exposed against Sestao.
Sarabia also has a personal connection with the club. As a player, the former Cantabrian midfielder made 82 appearances for Espanyol, and his return represents a reunion with an institution he previously represented on the pitch.
He will be joined by Jon López, Jon Moreno, Aitor Unzué and Álvaro González, who are also arriving as part of his coaching staff.
The club confirmed that Sarabia’s official presentation will take place next Tuesday. In the meantime, Sergio García of the reserve side is expected to take charge on an interim basis for the upcoming league fixture against Villarreal.
That match will provide Espanyol with little time to recover from the disappointment of their cup exit. The new coach will need to assess the squad quickly and establish his priorities, with league results now the immediate focus.
For Sarabia, the appointment offers the chance to make an impact at a club he knows well. For Espanyol, it is an attempt to reset the season after a defeat that cost González his job and intensified concerns about the team’s direction.
The contract through 2028 gives the new coach an opportunity to build beyond the immediate crisis, but his first priority will be to improve performances and results as Espanyol attempt to move away from danger in LaLiga.