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Club, Social Work and Fans

29/08/2025 14:00:11

Charles Pickel and Urko González de Zarate were officially presented as RCD Espanyol players on Friday, accompanied by sporting director Fran Garagarza and CEO Mao Ye.

“We had analysed Pickel and had watched him play in person several times. He's the type of player we wanted for the midfield, and he complements what we have here already,” said Garagarza.

“Urko was a target we all had in mind, including the fans. More than a signing, his case is that of a continuation of what he gave us last year. I didn't think it would be easy, but as the weeks went by, doors began to open. We're delighted to have him here.”

Pickel said that “RCD Espanyol are a club with a lot of history. When they called me, I knew this was what I wanted, because it represents a step forward for me. They are a perfect team for my style. I'm very happy.”

“I'm ready for whatever comes next,” he insists. “I've spoken with the coach and I'm clear that I’ve come here to help the team. Everything has happened very quickly, but I feel very happy. The whole team have welcomed me,” he commented.

Urko, who had previously been at the club on loan from Real Sociedad, explained that “I knew there were talks going on, but I had to be patient until my agent called me to give me the news. Here I am: Happy and content.”

“It’s a long contract, but I've signed for a big club and I'm looking forward to these next few years because they will be great for Espanyol. We have a very good, competitive, hard-working squad. Every weekend we'll go for the three points, and I'm sure it will be a good season.”

Urko also remembered that RCD Espanyol “gave me confidence when I needed it most. That was important, because they put their faith in me.”

Finally, Mao Ye praised the two latest additions, officially welcoming them to the club, and joked about Urko's arrival because “last Sunday, when we went to San Sebastián to play Real Sociedad, you could almost have come back on our bus.”