The RFEF Disciplinary Code handed a four-match suspension to the Basque coach after he repeatedly insulted match officials during a 2-1 defeat against Real Betis on 12 May. He served half of that sanction last term during a 1-0 victory over Getafe and the decisive 1-1 draw against Girona that sealed survival.

As a result, Eder Sarabia will be forced to watch his new Espanyol side from the stands this Friday (21:00) against Villarreal, and will also sit out Deportivo de La Coruna's visit to the RCDE Stadium. The newly appointed tactician will take charge from the 'Perico' technical area for the first time on 20 November at 21:00 against Athletic Club at San Mames.

His managerial record in La Liga is limited exclusively to last season at Elche. Setting aside his previous spells as Quique Setien's assistant at Real Betis and Barcelona, a top-flight return of ten wins, 13 draws, and 15 defeats constitutes his pedigree as he arrives in Cornella. Until the ban expires, Sergio Garcia will deputise on the touchline.