Edu: Relegation is the primary goal of Espanyol; opposition to putting formal competitions abroad

Hupu, August 15th, 29-year-old Espanyol midfielder Edu has secured the starting position of the home court against Atletico Madrid. The Catalan player welcomed the new season with optimism and he believes the team has a good foundation. "The transfer window has not been closed yet, and there will definitely be someone to join. I believe we will eventually have a much complete team than last year." He said in the press room yesterday.

Speaking of goals, Edu is both cautious and ambitious. "Our first task is to relegate, but everyone wants to rush up to compete for more important things. We will not set limits for ourselves."

Speaking of facing Atletico Madrid in the first round, he said: "Now, maybe we can catch us off guard while they have not fully run-in, but it also depends on our own condition. Of course, if they just finished the Champions League in the middle of the week, it is also an opportunity. The key is still to ourselves. We drew twice last season with Atletico Madrid, and the scene was also good. We must build an advantage at home from the first game, win the first game first, and then strive to score points at home continuously, which will bring vitality to the whole season."

Personal level, Edu said that he has completely left the knee injury that has been plagued by a year. "I played and felt good in the second half of last season. I was full of expectations for the new season and was very happy. I always felt a little uncomfortable when I stopped in the summer, but my preseason was very good in both playing time and condition. I am ready, hoping that both individuals and teams can have an excellent season."

When asked about the possible move of Villarreal and Barcelona to Miami, Edu responded: "We must respect our fans. At this stage, we oppose putting the official game abroad."

He was also officially included in the captain's group this summer, and he is deeply honored. "It's special to wear the captain's armband, which is an important step for me and a huge pride." After a long and difficult road to recovering from a knee injury, Edu Exposito is embracing the new season at its best and determined to continue his outstanding performance at the end of last season.