Former Aston Villa president of football operations Monchi has reportedly accepted a new role at Espanyol, seven months after parting ways with the Premier League club. The Spanish executive returned to his home country after a two-year stint working alongside Unai Emery and Damian Vidagany at Villa Park.
Monchi's Departure from Aston Villa
Monchi left Villa in late 2025 and was succeeded by Roberto Olabe, who officially began his duties later that year. Villa are now preparing for their first summer transfer window without Monchi's input, while he himself is on the verge of a return to La Liga.
According to reports in Spain, Espanyol have received the green light from Monchi to join their project. Mundo Deportivo claims that Monchi is highly attracted to the vision of Alan Pace, Espanyol's president, who also owns English Championship side Burnley.
Espanyol's Current Situation
With four matches remaining in the La Liga season, Espanyol are 13th in the table, just three points above 18th-placed Alavés. Levante sit six points behind in 19th, meaning the Catalan club still have work to do to secure their top-flight status.
Upon leaving Villa, Monchi expressed his gratitude: "I would like to thank everyone connected with Aston Villa for the support and warmth they have shown me since I joined the club, especially Unai and Damian who I have worked especially closely with over these last two years. I must also thank our owners, Nassef Sawiris, Wes Edens and Michael Angelakis for their confidence and their support. I would also like to say a special thank you to all the staff at Aston Villa as well as the players. Lastly, a big thank you to the supporters. We have enjoyed so many special moments together and I look forward to continuing to support V Sports in an advisory role."
Monchi's move to Espanyol would mark a significant step in his career, returning to a league where he previously achieved success with Sevilla.
