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El Hilali: "We know that we have to pick up the pace now"

The defender speaks ahead of three more preseason fixtures

The second half of preseason has begun this week, with three demanding, high-level friendlies lying ahead. However, the RCD Espanyol squad remain determined to keep improving, and approach each match "with enthusiasm and a lot of excitement," according to defender Omar El Hilali.

"The team are excited and we know that we have to pick up the pace now. Three very tough matches are coming up now, and they'll be very similar to what awaits us in LaLiga. We have to prepare ourselves to the fullest to be ready for the start of the competition."

He also noted that "we're performing at a very good level. We hope to continue improving things and arrive fresh for the first match against Atletico Madrid. LaLiga is very demanding, and every match will be like a final. We have to focus on things game by game to be able to compete and achieve our objective as soon as possible."

El Hilali commented that the adaptation made by all the club's new signings has been very good.

"We knew many of them from before, but as a group we're welcoming them and trying to integrate them as quickly as possible."

"We have to always be prepared, because we're really looking forward to LaLiga starting."