r96 - Comments

037: Aiming for that UEFA Conference League place.

Time for the Championship Group! Lincoln Red Imps had just defeated Manchester 62 in the Rock Cup final, so that confirmed that 3rd and 4th would receive a spot in the UEFA Conference League first qualifying round. It was Man 62 and Diego Correa's Europa who held those positions coming into these final five matches. Would it stay that way?

Arguably the biggest match of this spell was the one that kickstarted the post-season: Europa vs. Magpies. 4th vs. 5th. The two were three points away from each other coming into the fixture and that gap was maintained, as Europa were happiest with what was a goalless draw at the Victoria Stadium.

That precious point was followed up with three more as a Max Wilkinson goal sent Europa to a slim win over Glacis United, who are basically the somewhat whipping boys of this group; but credit, no doubt, to Correa's former side for making it for a second straight season.

In Game 3 of 5, Europa did falter as title-chasing and undefeated Lincoln Red Imps won 1-0 after Eros Maddy's early strike. This result confirmed the Red Imps as champions.

On the penultimate day of the campaign, Manchester 62 and Europa played out a 1-1 draw. Stéphane Favret (who else?) and Amoros Nshimirimana (who else?) got the goals, in what was a pretty good outcome for both teams; less so, the chasing Magpies.

The campaign concluded with a 2-1 loss to second place St. Joseph's. Oliver Smith with a double, either side of a Borja Alonso - who has unfortunately signalled his intent to leave in the off-season - leveller.

Back in the UEFA Conference League 1QR. Let's go! 3rd is bonus place to finish too. Just 2pts the gap to 5th. Tight!

Here's hoping Diego Correa can get that first European win to his name, having drawn and lost to those Lithuanians back in July 2032. As you can tell from the standings above, the top two in Lincoln Red Imps and St. Joseph's were untouchable - even more so than they normally are. They lost just once between ‘em in the GFL all season! The final two meetings with Lincoln and St Joseph’s were tight though, the switch to 4-4-2 definitely made Europa more secure - a smart change of tactic by Mr. Correa!

Diego Correa has signed a one-year extension to his Europa contract, keeping him with The Green Machine until June 2034. The Argentine did have to initiate contract talks though, so the board weren't exactly racing to keep their manager; not the best backing, but time to move on and plan ahead for the upcoming 2033-34.

Thanks for reading! Next Update: Pre-Season.

The Save So Far:

036: Claiming a top 6 spot?

Europa do have work to do having lost three out of five matches to begin 2033, but a place in the top six is more than readily available. So it was time to claim that objective.

A 4-0 thumping to St. Joseph's made for a poor beginning, but the meetings with the big two clubs have all been batterings this season so this was not a surprise. Job Ochieng hit a brace, preceding other goals inside the first 16 minutes from Jacob Swift and Mohamed Akogo. This contest was over before it even got started.

Max Wilkinson scored a double in January 2033's second fixture, as Europa comfortably beat bottom half side Mons Calpe.

A bit of transfer business occurred before the subsequent match. Back-up 32yo striker Gianfranco Peña decided he wanted a loan away from the club so he headed off to his homeland of Colombia with Primera C outfit Equipo Azul. His replacement was Michael Ruiz, a 32yo striker on a free from Glacis United; he is someone Diego Correa managed whilst with The Clarets between 2029 and 2030.

In the third encounter of the year, Europa defeated Hound Dogs with a 2-0 scoreline after a brace from Borja Alonso.

The 2032-33 Rock Cup got underway to complete the month, as Europa were drawn in the first round with namesakes Europa Point. It would be the higher flying Europa who would advance, as Amoros Nshimirimana and Oscar Sánchez got on the scoresheet. It did take extra time, however.

Back in Gibraltar Football League action, Europa secured a big win over fellow UEFA Conference League qualifying hopefuls Magpies. Amoros Nshimirimana netted on 46mins, before Hernán Saldãna (53mins) and Jozef Mravec (88mins) made the end result look more convincing than it probably was.

Another piece of transfer news followed. First-choice centre-back Hatim Mezrai had kicked up a fuss to leave a while back and now, following the window closing, decided he wanted out immediately. He thus headed off to Navalcarnero of the Spanish fifth tier. It's a loss no doubt, but Europa do have replacements in stock.

Less said about this one, the better. Manchester 62 thrashed Europa 5-1 in a Rock Cup quarter-final, despite the match being 1-1 on 42 minutes. Erion Zabeli and Amoros Nshimirimana traded goals, though Man 62 went back ahead within literal seconds of Nshimirimana's equaliser. Stéphane Favret, who always nets versus Europa, popped up with a hat-trick, with Dani López claiming the other goal. A day to forget.

Are the wheels coming off? Europa returned to the GFL next time out and crashed to a 2-0 loss against Glacis United. Jimmy Perry and Fodé Ballo-Touré netted for Diego Correa's old team. Europa did admittedly have a fair few injuries around this point, including to the first-choice goalkeeper, but even so there were deeper problems.

Diego Correa changed tactics to a defensive 4-3-3 for that Glacis Utd game, which evidently had no effect. For the final match of the regular campaign against Lions, the Argentine switched to a classic 4-4-f'ing-2. Evidently, it worked - but it was against a poor opponent, so time will tell if it works for the post-season fixtures. Michael Ruiz scored his first Europa goal here, prior to Hernán Saldãna and Max Wilkinson capping off a dominant display. One downside: Amoros Nshimirimana got sent off.

Europa do make the championship group, as expected. They head into it in 4th. The top four are expected to get UEFA Conference League qualification, though the Rock Cup final is between Lincoln Red Imps (1st) and Manchester 62 (3rd). So if Man 62 finish 5th and win the cup they will still get a UECL place, meaning 4th in the GFL would miss out. Magpies are the side currently 5th and are three points off 3rd/4th, so as long as Europa can keep ahead of Magpies - who they play first - across the final five games then they should get European football. The performances do need correcting, though.

Thanks for reading! Next Update: March + April.

The Save So Far:

035: A fruitful festive period?

Europa came into this November and December slate of fixtures with good morale as they sat 3rd. Would that positive feeling continue heading towards the New Year?

That's a shocker! Europa lose 2-1 to second-bottom side Lions. Tomás Sousa and Will Sanders got the all-important goals for the victors, with Curtis Morrell adding what would only be a consolation on 81mins for Diego Correa's team.

Europa weren't at their best in their next fixture either, though they did do enough to claim all three points versus Europa Point. Ashton Wahnon's equalising of Borja Alonso's opener looked like it would claim Point a point, but thankfully for FC a winning goal was found via Armend Mema in the 89th minute.

Another late show followed, as Europa only scraped past struggling College 75 thanks to a clincher from Borja Alonso in the third minute of stoppage time at the end of the second half.

A 3-0 loss arrived for Europa in their penultimate match of 2032. Manchester 62 trounced 'em 3-0, though were helped greatly by a minute 49 red card to Curtis Morrell. Stéphane Favret had already put The Red Devils in front twenty minutes prior, later notching a brace after Juani Fernández had made it two-nil. A bad defeat against a team that will challenge The Green Machine for a European spot.

Unbeaten league leaders Lincoln Red Imps were up next. They won narrowly but more than deserved the victory as Jamal Jimoh-Aloba became the hero.

Europa go into 2033 sitting 4th. There are five more fixtures to play before the Gibraltar Football League sends the top five into a championship group. As expected, it's looking like a three-way fight for the European places of 3rd and 4th between Magpies, Europa and Manchester 62. 2pts separates all three clubs as it stands, though Man 62 have played a game extra. The January/February/March schedule will also see at least one Rock Cup tie (enter at round one) added to it.

Thanks for reading! Next Update: January + February + March.

The Save So Far:

034: Back to the bread and butter.

After an exit in the first qualifying round of the UEFA Conference League to Banga, the attentions of Diego Correa and his Europa team turned back to the more familiar Gibraltar Football League.

September started with a heavy 4-1 defeat to reigning champions Lincoln Red Imps, who were admittedly helped by a first half red card to Europa's Ethan Britto. Samu Herrero and Marc Bombardó put the Red Imps two ahead, before Amoros Nshimirimana got Correa's team back into the match on 21 minutes. Unfortunatedly, any potential comeback hopes were shattered just before the interval due to Britto's red. In the second half, Abdullahi Obi and (as always) Jamal Jimoh-Aloba added gloss.

Europa responded by scoring four goals of their own, as basement boys Lynx - who have lost every match thus far - were eased past. Hernán Saldãna netted first, before the great Amoros Nshimirimana hit a brace before half-time. Hatim Mezrai would add a fourth on 73mins.

Another team netted four next time out, but like two games ago it was one of the division's big guns that flattened Europa. Job Ochieng, Xabi Goikoetxea, Javier Feria and José Maria Sevilha got on the scoresheet for St. Joseph's.

On 10 October 2032, Europa defeated Mons Calpe 2-0 at the Victoria Stadium. Amoros Nshimirimana scored in the first half, before Borja Alonso struck in the second forty-five minute period.

Hound Dogs were beaten a week later, as Amoros Nshimirimana (what a player), youngster Jozef Mravec (who also assisted the first) and Borja Alonso converted past the bottom half team.

Another match with Lynx arrived just over a month after the last encounter with The Yellows. It was to be another success for Europa against their struggling opponents, as Amoros Nshimirimana hit the game's only goal.

A five-goal thriller followed, though it was one Diego Correa's boys came out on the wrong side of as Magpies clinched a sizeable 3-2 win. Amoros Nshimirimana equalised Mauro Echegoyen's early penalty, though Pablo Arenzana scored twice in as many second half minutes to put the FCB club 3-1 ahead. Hernán Saldãna would pull one back for The Green Machine but no secondary leveller was to be found.

On Halloween night 2032, Glacis United produced no spooks as Europa won 2-1. Amoros Nshimirimana, of course, and Borja Alonso got the decisive goals, with Vitoriano Carvalhido's 76th-minute strike for Glacis Utd proving superficial.

That goalscorers column on the fixture list shows how important Amoros Nshimirimana is to Europa. The Burundi international won the Golden Boot last campaign with 21 goals in 27 fixtures and he looks to be going for that accolade again this season with the 31yo currently sat on 11 goals in 11 games. Juan Rodríguez of Lincoln Red Imps is currently tied with Nshimirimana for the 2032-33 Golden Boot.

It was a strong two months, which leaves Europa in third place; 2pts off top spot (again, no title race expected) spot but others have games in hand; including Magpies in 4th. That loss to the latter was the only negative from September and October, as well as those outclassed defeats to the two big clubs - but that is to be anticipated. November and December isn't set to be as busy with only five matches scheduled. December will be difficult versus Manchester 62 and Lincoln Red Imps, but November offers promise.

Thanks for reading! Next Update: November + December.

The Save So Far:

033: Europe with Europa.

With the first stage of pre-season complete, Diego Correa would now lead Europa into a UEFA Conference League 1QR double-header with Banga of Lithuania.

Mr. Correa's managerial debut in Europe ended in a close-fought 0-0 draw at the Victoria Stadium versus Banga. Either side could've won but neither did, so it would all be decided in Gargždai one week later.

Sadly, it would be the Lithuanians who would advance after extra time. Goals from Andrius Stankevičius and Evaldas Armalas sent the A Lyga side through to play Georgian club Iberia; who'd win 7-0 on aggregate. The 90 minutes were fairly even but Banga ran away with it in the additional period. Better luck next time; hopefully next year!

A series of three friendlies were then scheduled to fill the gap between the short-lived European action and the August domestic league start. The Royal Gibraltar Regiment were beat 3-0 in the opener thanks to Amoros Nshimirimana (2) and Max Wilkinson, while game two versus La Rock Puente finished as a 5-1 victory after Hatim Mezrai, Nshimirimana, Armend Mema (2) and Alberto Quintana converted. In the finale, Ceuta B were condemned to a 3-0 loss; Hernán Saldãna (more on him shortly), Nshimirimana and Gianmarco Venturini scored in that one.

Diego Correa almost had a pre-season reunion with Xerez Deportivo, who requested a friendly with Europa for this part of pre-season. Unfortunately, the match was cancelled due to Lincoln Red Imps' use of the Victoria Stadium clashing with the intended date of the Xerez exhibition. Shame.

The team's Gibraltar Football League campaign kicked off on 14 August 2032, as Europa ran out 2-1 winners against College 75 after Hernán Saldãna and Amoros Nshimirimana put The Green Machine two goals ahead; Romain Soule pulled one back for C75.

Then came a big test against Manchester 62, who finished 2nd last season. Hatim Mezrai would get sent off in this one, but that event pleasantly didn't stop Europa claiming the points as they still managed a 2-1 win. Amoros Nshimirimana remains the man with the goals as he notched a brace, which put the club two-nil ahead until Adam Gracia netted a consolation late on for Man 62.

Europa Point were the final opponents of this opening period. They were a team Diego Correa failed to beat last season (two draws), but in the first match-up of the new season it wasn't a contest at all as Europa FC won 4-1. Gianmarco Venturini struck a double, which was paired with Max Wilkinson and Hernán Saldãna goals. No longer a bogey team?

As shown above, there has also been some more transfer activity.

Hernán Saldãna joined the club in this period and, as you've read, he has settled in lovely. 2 goals in 3 games for the new Chilean 20yo left winger, who arrives from fifth tier homeland team Municipal Mejillones. There wasn't any suitably good LWs available to replace Ander Sesma so Correa had been forced to move Ethan Britto - who actually U-turned on departing in the off-season - from left-back to left wing. Thankfully, Saldãna's agent Jean Paul Donoso got in touch and the rest is history. Looks a player.

Tomas Ildefonso also penned terms, joining basically on Deadline Day due to a squad emergency. Starting right-back Álvaro Mayorga declared himself homesick so a move back to Spain with Tropezón was agreed, meaning a new RB was needed. Ildefonso is a Portuguese 28yo who joins from Évora-based Juventude. He did cost around £3k, which makes it the first time Diego Correa has splashed cash. The only downside is his wages of £975 p/w which is comfortably the highest in the squad, those numbers were negotiated by the DoF and Correa is uneasy with it - but a new RB was vital and he is an upgrade of Mayorga (who is a CB, really) so the Argentine let those concerns slide.

The director of football, Sean Parody, also made a late move for 28yo midfielder Borja Alonso, who comes in as a free agent after leaving St. Joseph's back in June. It looks to be a fine piece of business by Mr. Parody, by all off-field metrics it appears to be a major upgrade on those already in the squad. On the pitch will be the acid test, but the first impressions are good.

Three games in and Europa sit top of the table. Stop the count! A long way to go and others have games in hand. A title challenge is not anticipated whatsoever - it is still nice to see though. College and Europa Point made for kind opening fixtures, though that triumph over Manchester 62 does offer promise.

The GFL season truly clicks into gear across September and October, with the latter month having five encounters in that competition scheduled. Lincoln Red Imps, St. Joseph's and Magpies are the games that are expected to be difficult, but the other opponents are ones that Europa should look to beat - it's never that simple, of course.

Thanks for reading! Next Update: September + October.

The Save So Far:

032: Preparing for the qualifiers.

Diego Correa has just had a positive first season in charge of Gibraltar Football League side Europa, guiding them into the upcoming UEFA Conference League qualifiers. In the off-season, though, some key players would depart, so new additions were needed.

Firstly, two loanees from last season were made permanent. Pascasio Bonoha and Óscar Sánchez come in full-time from Anguiano and Manchester 62. Bonoha was a little disappointing last season but in fairness was played out of position on the left wing; rather than as a striker. With other departures, Correa felt it was worth keeping the 20yo. Sánchez, meanwhile, was pretty solid, featuring a good amount at centre-back. He'll go into 2032-33 as third-choice, but would be expected to feature a fair bit.

As for outs, some were major. Nicholas Pozo was a starting midfielder, he had earlier penned pre-contract terms with St. Joseph's. Hassane Adamou was the starting defensive midfielder, though was unhappy (if still high performing) all season and departs due to the end of his contract. Ander Sesma is the other big loss, this one hurt the Argentine boss a little as Sesma went behind the club's back to sign a pre-contract with Manchester 62; no notifying of Europa at all, until the deed was done. Pollo's loan ends, youngster Ben Blower remains while Pablo Rodríguez chose to retire. Those latter three aren't big players.

The first actual signing was Curtis Morrell from Magpies. With the aforementioned Pozo and Adamou departing, Europa needed some new midfielders. Morrell can play DM or CM, he'll initially play the latter position. At 21yo he offers potential, he probably wont be as good as those who have left but the Gibraltarian was the best - in Correa's eyes - available.

Armend Mema makes for the other midfield replacement, he'll be the starting defensive midfielder as it stands. He is a 21yo Albanian arriving from Glacis United, who is also able to play at centre-back if needs be.

Ahead of the UEFA Conference League first qualifying round, where Europa will meet Banga of Lithuania across two legs, the club played pre-season friendlies with Manchester 62 and Cádiz Mirandilla. The game with the fellow GFL team ended 0-0, with Diego Correa's players winning on spot-kicks. The match versus Cádiz's B team ended in a 3-1 loss, though it was 1-1 for 87 minutes. Amoros Nshimirimana netted for the hosts, as the visitor goals came from Iván Flores, Ricardo Aguirre and Daniel.

Thanks for reading! Next Update: July + August.

The Save So Far:

031: Off on a European tour?

Diego Correa has led Europa into the championship group, as expected by those in and around the club. Now, it's time to see if The Green Machine can return to the European qualifiers after a rare one-season absence.

What a way to start the quest for the UEFA Conference League qualifiers! Helped by a 29th-minute red card to Darren Edwards, Europa defeated soon-to-be champions Lincoln Red Imps 1-0 thanks to star striker Amoros Nshimirimana's 26th-minute goal.

In the days after that shock victory over Lincoln Red Imps, the board of Europa offered Diego Correa a new one-year contract - which the Argentine duly accepted.

Europa followed up that unexpected win last time out with another, more anticipated, victory on matchday three of five. It was another triumph over ex-club Glacis United for Mr. Correa, as Alberto Quintana contributed to Amoros Nshimirimana's double to secure a 3-0 success.

Then came a crunch meeting with Magpies, where a victory would confirm Europa's place inside the top four - and thus European footy. As you can see above, that win did indeed arrive thanks to Hatim Mezrai and a Sergi Molina own-goal. UEFA Conference League first qualifying round, here we come!

A defeat would be up next, as Manchester 62 won 1-0 thanks to the high-scoring Sergi Baldrich; who won the match-up with Golden Boot rival Amoros Nshimirimana, who was actually unusually awful as he gained a red match rating.

On the last day of the 2031-32 campaign, Europa tasted defeat for the second match running as St. Joseph's won 2-0 thanks to Javi Feria and Xabi Goikoetxea.

4th place and UEFA Conference League 1QR confirmed. You can't complain with that! Well, Diego Correa could slightly as 2nd place looked possible until those final two gamedays, but it's nothing major as the European prize is the exact same anyway.

2032-33 will bring with it some challenges, for example a few key players are departing though the squad should still function similarly - just with a few replacements needed. Money is available, but whether the talent is there is another question. We'll see! For now, the only feeling for Correa is happiness with his managerial bow in Europe on the way.

Thanks for reading! Next Update: Pre-Season.

The Save So Far:

030: Championship group qualification?

With the regular campaign having just six matches remaining, all eyes were on whether Europa could at least maintain their ten-point gap inside the top five to qualify for the championship group - where European football would be on offer.

Europa had a fantastic start to this period, as College 75 were dispatched with a 5-0 thrashing. Max Wilkinson, Alberto Quintana, Amoros Nshimirimana, Hassane Adamou and Gianfranco Peña made it five different goalscorers.

A key contest with fellow top five hopefuls Manchester 62 followed. A 1-1 draw happened at the Victoria Stadium, with Stéphane Favret scoring first before Amoros Nshimirimana struck a leveller.

Before the mid-season transfer window closed, Diego Correa signed Pollo on loan from College 75. The 33yo right winger isn't good enough, though Europa were in need of some extra depth as a few injuries/suspensions/loan ineligibility was hampering squad selection every now and then. The Spaniard was also having a relatively good season with College, picking up four assists (best in the division for a bottom half team) for the strugglers.

Lions were made mincemeat of on 24 January 2032, with Alberto Quintana adding himself to a scoresheet that would later also include Jordan Boateng and, of course, Amoros Nshimirimana. The match was over by half-time.

Then came the first of a double-header with the best Gibraltar Football League team: Lincoln Red Imps. In the first league encounter, they would end up as very comfortable 4-1 winners. Admittedly, a red card to Europa's Alberto Quintana at 0-1 on 15 minutes was extremely damaging. Amoros Nshimirimana did get a late goal for The Green Machine, though the Red Imps won with Oumar Sidibé, Rodri, Jorge Montes and Jamal Jimoh-Aloba goals.

In the Rock Cup quarter-final tie, the toughest possible draw was one that Europa just lost narrowly. Lincoln Red Imps merited their advancement, but only done so with a 31st-minute Rodri strike.

It was to be three straight defeats for Europa, which is the first time that's happened under Diego Correa's watch. In fairness, it was against the other big club in St. Joseph's. Juan Rodríguez and Mohamed Akogo netted for them, as they recovered from going a goal down via Amoros Nshimirimana.

Europa got back on the right track in the final regular season fixture, as second bottom Lynx were beaten 2-1. It was closer than it should have been, but the three points did go to The Green Machine after goals for Amoros Nshimirimana (18th of the season; best in GFL) and Hatim Mezrai; Kgotso Benjamin got one for Lynx before the interval.

That's a spot in the final stage confirmed. Europa place 4th, a few points behind Manchester 62 and a few points ahead of Magpies. The top five now face each other once more. Lincoln Red Imps - who also won the cup final versus St. Joseph's (who won the Pepe Reyes Cup, fwiw) - are 13 points clear at the top so are champions in waiting. St. Joseph's are only 3pts ahead of Europa, so are evidently in a fight for European football. Based on 2030-31 and who won the cup this season, I believe the top four get Europe.

Let's hope for some UEFA qualifier action in July. It's tricky to read how this five-game phase will go, though getting the Lincoln Red Imps fixture out of the way first is a possible blessing for Europa. The match with Magpies midway through could be crucial.

Thanks for reading! Next Update: March + April.

The Save So Far:

029: A good start was made. More to follow?

Not to speak too soon, but it feels like Diego Correa has found what he has been desiring since leaving Xerez Deportivo in 2028: stability. The sack shouldn't really be in question in what is a top-heavy Gibraltar Football League, while there are modest finances to work with when dealing with the comings and goings. It is a results business though, so let's see how Europa got on across November and December 2031.

November got underway with a respectable draw with league leaders St. Joseph's, who were made scoreless at the Victoria Stadium.

From a match that Europa shouldn't be winning, to one that they really ought to have. And beat Lynx they did, as Gianfranco Peña followed up a brace from Amoros Nshimirimana to secure the points.

A second 0-0 of the month arrived on 23 November, albeit one that was most certainly unsatisfactory on this occasion. Europa Point, sat near the bottom of the 12-team table, took points off Europa for the second time this season - a bogey team, evidently.

Europa returned to winning ways to conclude November, as another struggler was faced in Mons Calpe. They would lose 2-1, despite equalising through Diego Correa's countryman Alan Picazzo on 50mins. Amoros Nshimirimana and Nicholas Pozo would, however, get the match-winning goals for The Green Machine.

Another revisit to Glacis United came in one of 2031's final fixtures. It was to be another victory against his old team for Mr. Correa, as Europa won 1-0 thanks to an early strike from Ander Sesma. Carlos Flood's red card just after the interval for Glacis was a help.

Mid-December saw a big win over Magpies, a team that should be in the race with Europa for European football. Ander Sesma scored in back-to-back matches, preceding a further conversion this campaign for Amoros Nshimirimana. Facu Moreyra, another Argentine, had made it 1-1 for a short while for Magpies.

December and the year ended with a disappointing draw with Hound Dogs. That's the third goalless tie of 2031-32 for Europa, who are struggling a little bit to break down the teams at the bottom of the standings. Something to work on.

Diego Correa's Europa remain 4th, though the gap to top spot has halved from 8pts to 4pts. Not that a title challenge is at all expected, but it is a sign of how well the team are currently doing. Lincoln Red Imps lead the way, despite two-to-three games in hand on the teams around them due to their UEFA Conference League commitments. Only 6pts seperates the entire top five, which is interesting. Sixth place Glacis United are already cut adrift by 8pts, so a top five spot should be coming Europa's way - which is the objective.

There are just six regular season fixtures left on the schedule, though a Rock Cup quarter-final will be added shortly and, if all goes well, the championship stage will be on there as well.

Thanks for reading! Next Update: January + February + March.

The Save So Far:

028: Pre-season form continued?

The 2031-32 season proper is here. Can Diego Correa's Europa carry their solid pre-season form into the competitive matches?

You can't argue with that for a start! Amoros Nshimirimana struck a nice hat-trick, with an own-goal from Mons Calpe's Adam Hamdi making it 4-0 just after the break.

After that fixture, Jordan Boateng joined Europa. He is a 26yo winger, capable of playing on the left and right. The German isn't all that good, but the team desperately needed a back-up who could play on both wings. Sadly, Boateng got a lengthy-ish injury quickly after joining, so hasn't featured much; despite other injuries opening up a place for him.

In the ‘Europa derby’, it ended 1-1. Diego Correa's boys were the dominant team, though a late goal from Point's Aiman Santos cancelled out Hatim Mezrai's opener for FC.

A reunion came Correa's way next time out, as Europa hosted his former team Glacis United. Max Wilkinson and Alberto Quintana would net in a half of each's own to give the Argentine a win over his former employers.

Magpies got the better of Europa to start September 2031, as a sole goal from Nicolás Ramella was the difference. A fairly tight game, but one the victors narrowly edged.

Hound Dogs were no match for Europa on 13 September, as Amoros Nshimirimana hit his second treble of the GFL season. Some player!

On matchday 6, it was a meeting between College 75 and Europa. I mentioned in my recap of the latter's history that they were merged with a club called College. Well, C75 are the spiritual successor to that team, so these two clubs share a big history together. On the pitch in 2031, it was Europa who came out as the winners. Amoros Nshimirimana got the opener, before centre-back Gianmarco Venturini doubled The Green Machine's advantage on 64 minutes.

Manchester 62 were the antepenultimate opponent of this opening portion and they came away with a point. Sergi Baldrich put them in front on 22mins, though 15 minutes later Amoros Nshimirimana hit his 8th goal of the campaign with a penalty. Those two strikers are the current league topscorers, with the Europa man just ahead by 1 goal. The 30yo Burundi international has also penned a new contract (was ending in 2032), keeping him at Europa until June 2033; with a club option to extend for another year.

Lions played Europa at Victoria Stadium on 19 October. It was the latter who ran out winners, claiming a 3-1 scoreline thanks to goals from Max Wilkinson, Alberto Quintana and Gianmarco Venturini. Juan Miguel Gómez had put Lions 1-0 to the good early on.

October concluded with a match-up with one of the two big boys in the Gibraltar Football League, whom Europa had so far avoided. Lincoln Red Imps, who had just beaten Ludogorets in the UEFA Conference League league phase, eased past The Green Machine with a three-goal success; Samu Herrero, Rodri and Jamal Jimoh-Aloba netted.

A very positive beginning. Europa sit 4th, which is around where you would expect them to be come the season's end. St. Joseph's are runaway leaders at the moment with a 7 point gap to second place Lincoln Red Imps, but their big foes Lincoln do have a game in hand. The Red Imps have won the last four titles, so this could be a big season for St. Joseph's. Still a long way to go.

Reminder: The format is 22 games (2x11), with the top five heading into a championship group where they'd play each other once to decide the champion; regular season records stay intact, while a championship play-off would take place if the top two can't be separated by three tiebreakers. As for European places, I believe there are four on offer; one is presumably set aside for the Rock Cup but could redirect to the league. I think 3rd/4th has to be the objective for Europa, but time will tell.

November opens with a game with St. Joseph's, so defeat is more than likely there. After that, however, it's Lynx, Europa Point and Mons Calpe - three of the bottom four. December is only set to be against mid-table/lower mid-table teams too, so a good opportunity to build up some points.

Thanks for reading! Next Update: November + December.

The Save So Far:

027: Friends reunited.

Pre-season has come and gone for Diego Correa in his first season with Europa of Gibraltar. Three exhibition encounters were played, whilst a number of new faces were brought in - including two favourites from the Argentine's past.

Oscar Sánchez was the first incoming, with director of football Sean Parody snapping him up on loan from fellow GFL team Manchester 62. He'll initially act as back-up for the starting centre-backs, though the Spaniard has every chance of working his way into the starting eleven.

Look who it is! Ander Sesma, the clear best player from Diego Correa's days managing Andorra, comes in on loan from the aforementioned club. He was initially deemed uninterested, so I'd like to think that his connection with the Argentine boss (who appears under his favoured personnel) was the reason why he agreed to join.

Another one! Pascasio Bonoha pens loan terms from Tercera Federación club Anguiano, who he joined after time at Club Esportiu Europa; where he was, of course, coached by Mr. Correa. This Europa team had no wingers when the Argentine came, so the abilities of Bonoha and Sesma to play left wing (as well as upfront) was most ideal. Bonoha will be back-up, but there'll be no second thoughts if he needs to become first-choice.

The last newbie, for now at least, is Nicholas Pozo, who is another loaned from Manchester 62 by the DoF. I think it's a good signing, he'll initially be depth but Hassane Adamou has noted his desire to depart so Pozo may become no. 1 very soon; no offers for Adamou as of yet, though.

The pitch action began on 29 July 2031, as La Rock Puente were beaten by two clear goals at the Estadio Carlos Piña. Ander Sesma - it's like we've never been away - scored the opener, before back-up striker Gianfranco Peña (assisted by Pascasio Bonoha) hit the second.

The second friendly was against Spanish fifth tier team Linense, who are an affiliate club of Europa's. The Green Machine secured a somewhat surprising 3-2 victory. Amoros Nshimirimana struck a brace, before youngster Max Wilkinson - just promoted to the first-team from the under-23s by Correa - scored the third. Wilkinson did actually get sent off a minute after his goal, though it wouldn't lead to a comeback from Linense; who got their goals via José and Jonathan Guerrón.

Andalusian regional outfit Arcos were the final pre-season opponents. Europa comfortably won 6-0 on the road, with Ander Sesma and Amoros Nshimirimana popping up with doubles. Alberto Quintana and Pascasio Bonoha also netted.

Only three friendly games, but an undeniably promising pre-season with many goals scored and the new signings hitting the ground running.

Much firmer tests to come of course, with Mons Calpe 'at home’ on the opening day of the Gibraltar Football League season.

Thanks for reading! Next Update: August + September + October.

The Save So Far:

026: Another new destination.

This is becoming an unwelcome, reocurring part of Diego Correa's life: a visit to the job centre. Perhaps the Argentine should've remained in the stable stables of Xerez Deportivo back in 2028, or remained committed to the albeit lowly Glacis United in 2030. These are the type of decisions that managers live and die by though. He moves on!

Correa had to wait until the end of the 2030-31 season to receive any interview interest, which belatedly came around June 2031 from Académico Viseu - who had just been relegated from Liga Portugal 2. It would've been somewhat of a plum new role to get, but the Portuguese club eventually went in another direction with former player André Almeida.

Next came interest from Gibraltar, as bottom half teams Lions and Europa Point offered interviews. In the end, Correa would reject both; citing the fact that those clubs are in the same position as Glacis United were when he resigned in early 2030.

Not long later, there was more interest from Gibraltar. Europa FC, the namesakes of aforementioned Point. This time Correa was interested, given they offered professional status (Lions, Point and even Glacis Utd are all semi-pro) and are one of the ‘best of the rest' teams on the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula behind Lincoln Red Imps and St. Joseph's. A job offer followed.

There was some late interest from Segunda Federación side Lugo B (aka Polvorin) in Spain, which led to Correa delaying his Europa FC decision by a week. The Spaniards had just placed mid-table in the fourth tier, so potentially offered a more stable Spanish job - at least compared to Correa's prior situations with CE Europa and Andorra. In the end, Lugo B went for a different candidate, which the Argentine wasn't too fussed about as he had, by that point, warmed to the idea of returning to Gibraltar. So that's what he did.

Diego Correa is heading back to Gibraltar! He is also managing the second club of his career named “Europa”, bizarrely.

Europa FC 🇬🇮 were founded in 1925. After joining the Gibraltar Premier Division, the club won their first league title in 1928-29. Another triumph followed a year later, with further glory arriving in two of the subsequent three campaigns; missing out in 1930-31 to Prince of Wales. The Green Machine won their first Rock Cup in 1940. Between then and 1970, Europa would win two more league trophies (in 1937-38 + 1951-52) and seven Rock Cups (in 1945-46, 1949-50, 1950-51, 1951-52, 1955-56, 1957-58 + 1960-61).

In 1970, Europa merged with College, thus taking the names College Cosmos or College Europa. These new looks failed to pay dividends for the team, which yo-yo'd between the top two divisions across the next four decades. In 2013-14, College Europa would finish 4th and place as Rock Cup runners-up; which qualified them for the UEFA Europa League qualifiers, as they became the first Gibraltarian side to play in that competition. In 2014-15, College Europa won the territory's League Cup. In mid-2015, the club would revert back to their Europa name; as well as reclaiming their old history. 

In 2016-17, Europa won the Gibraltar Premier Division for the first time since 1951-52. In turned out to be a campaign that saw The Green Machine win a domestic treble, having also secured the Pepe Reyes Cup (aka Super Cup) and the Rock Cup. The top division would fold in 2019 due to the founding of the new Gibraltar National League (now known as the Gibraltar Football League) in 2019-20, with Europa going on to win the first ever National League title. Between 2014 and 2024, the club took part in European qualifiers in every season, notably beating Pyunik (ARM), The New Saints (WAL) and Sant Julià (AND); albeit only progressing overall past the latter. Alternatively, Europa did lose 9-0 on aggregate to Slovan Bratislava in 2015.

In-game, Europa would place inside the top three for the opening four seasons. In 2028-29, they were runners-up by just 2pts to championship group victors Lincoln Red Imps). For the last two years, Europa have dropped off slightly as they've finished 4th and 6th in the regular season; 3rd + 5th in the championship group. They have, however, won two Rock Cups (2026 + 2030) and one Pepe Reyes Cup (2026).

As mentioned before with Glacis United, all teams in Gibraltar play at the scenic Victoria Stadium.

Diego Correa arrives at Europa on 14 July 2031 at the beginning of 2031-32, so has (a short) pre-season to get his feet under the table. He has a contract until June 2032.

Hassane Adamou - who is the only (current) unhappy player - and Hatim Mezrai are supposedly the team's best players. It is a very small squad, so incomings are needed and, for once, Mr. Correa has some money available to get new arrivals.

Mons Calpe and Europa Point (two of the bottom three in 2030-31) are the first two opponents for the upcoming competitive season, as a reunion with Glacis United - who actually became a mid-table team last campaign, to Correa's surprise - is penciled in for matchday three.

Thanks for reading! Next Update: Pre-Season.

The Save So Far:

025: Sacking inbound?

Despite a surprise run of 3 wins in 7 games across November and December, Diego Correa headed into 2031 still in need of results to impress the board enough so they didn't sack him; having revealed their intention - if results didn't improve - to do so in a November board meeting.

À la Guadalajara, Andorra miss a huge opportunity to (probably; ‘twas based on other results too) move out of the relegation zone. Terrassa, who started the year below Andorra, moved above their opponents following a 2-1 home win. Ander Sesma did net again for Andorra, but Unai Sabroso and Pablo Camino had already given the hosts a two-goal lead; which they, sadly, didn’t throw away.

The subsequent result was not a surprise, as league leaders Atlético Levante ran out 3-1 winners at the Estadi de la FAF in Encamp; despite a red card midway through the fixture to Jesús (not that fella, no). OK, it was a loss, but Ander Sesma struck again, you simply can't not be impressed by that kid. Luismi, Lorenzo Colombo and Aday Orts got the goals for Levante's B team.

In a key January finale, Andorra made it a hat-trick of defeats to relegation-threatened counterparts as La Nucía secured a major set of points thanks to Eneko Santamaría (2) and Abdoulaye Guèye. Ander Sesma scored another - no, wait, it was actually Nahum Matas who got on the FCA scoresheet, for a change.

That's all folks! Diego Correa didn't do enough in the end to impress chairperson Omar Carballo and his cronies fellow board members. It was a long time coming, in truth.

Those damaging losses to Terrassa and La Nucía were the likely large tipping points, understandably. Two wins from those matches and it might've have turned out so differently. Correa left Andorra in 17th, four points from safety.

Unsurprisingly, they would conclude 2030-31 with relegation to Tercera Federación; missing 13th (La Nucía, who also went down via the play-offs) by 11pts and 12th by 13pts. It's technically a second relegation for Correa, but officially it doesn't count on his record. A selfish, minor positive.

Elsewhere in the save, Xerez Deportivo have been relegated back to tier four, while Europa remain in the Tercera Federación (fifth tier).

Thanks for reading! Next Update: New Job (again!).

The Save So Far:

024: Any improvement?

Diego Correa is facing the second relegation battle of his managerial career. After failing to avoid the drop at third tier Europa, the Argentine now looks to be experiencing the same event at fourth tier Andorra. The only salvation? He might get sacked well before the relegation hammer drops. Unless an improvement arrives!

It was a win to begin November 2030! Ander Sesma, the only player to really make an impact this season, netted his 6th goal of the season to send Andorra to victory over relegation rivals La Nucía.

If you remember the heavy amount of international call-ups that affected Andorra hard in September/October, it almost happened again in November. Thankfully, the league saw sense this time - after, per local media, much lobbying behind the scenes at FCA - and allowed the club to request a postponement due to national team call-ups. The request was granted, meaning an away trip to high-flying Badalona was rearranged.

Consecutive wins?! No need to adjust your screens, it actually happened! It was an impressive triumph too, as (at the time) play-off hopefuls Atlético Saguntino were beat 3-2. Nahum Matas, Roberto Alarcón and Ander Sesma scored the home team's goals, the last two of which were when Andorra were losing 2-1; after Yidne Pinto and Azael García strikes for Saguntino.

Sadly, the winning streak concluded next time out - and in most damaging fashion. A 2-0 loss occurred to fellow relegation zone side Guadalajara, who claimed a massive win thanks to a brace from Pol Mancheño. Three points here would've sent FCA out of the dreaded bottom five, but it wasn't to be.

Understandably, that last defeat finally triggered the Andorra board into requesting an urgent meeting. Diego Correa fortunately managed to convince them into giving the Argentine a month further to improve things - or the first sacking of his career would come. There were four games left of 2030.

The rescheduled game with Badalona took place in the final midweek of November and it would prove to be a loss. Salim Dansokho was the matchwinner as Badalona strengthed their promotion play-off hopes.

December opened with another defeat, which obviously was not a good way to respond to that board meeting. Like Badalona though, Torrent are a team going well as they search for promotion. Naranjos would come out deserved victors here, though the scoreline did flatter them as it was 0-0 on 84mins. Álex Sánchez struck a brace, prior to Lauri Ikonen hitting a third.

Then came a match with Poblense, who are similarly struggling like Andorra. The fixture would end 1-1, though it was a point that Diego Correa was happy with as it looked like nothing would come their way after Jaime Dios' opener for the oppo. Thankfully, that man Ander Sesma found an equaliser on 87 minutes.

2030 ended with a huge win at home to promotion play-off outsiders Lleida. Ander Sesma, the main man, came up with yet another goal, which is impressively the 9th from 18 games for the 20yo Spanish forward. Where the heck would Andorra be without him?!

As of New Year's Day 2031, Diego Correa remains in the job; despite no official word arriving from the board. Unless they make a delayed decision in January, it appears the Argentine has got through the period of surveillance. To be honest, it has actually been a - relatively-speaking - pretty decent two months. Andorra now have 3 wins from 7 fixtures across November and December. For context, it was only 1 victory in 11 matches across September and October. It leaves FCA 15th (of 18), 1 point from safety.

turns out the board have given Correa until 26 January 2031 for an improvement to arrive; so two months rather than the one month initially mentioned 

There are another 7 Segunda Federación games to come across January and February 2031. Terrassa (16th) in January's starter represents a great chance to potentially move out of the relegation zone, but that exact opportunity was of course missed in November versus Guadalajara so nothing is guaranteed at all. Table toppers Atlético Levante are next, but after that it's 13th place La Nucía - another mammoth chance to change the season. Villarreal C, another relegation zone side, are to come in February too.

Vibes at Andorra are obviously rather bad right now though. The board and supporters are, eh, not best pleased, the players are not quite as negative as the aforementioned but they did call a meeting with Correa to request tangible tactical changes; somewhat questionably, given the relative form uptick. We'll see how that develops.

Ahead of 2031, Andorra have lost a key player. António André, one of two starting DMs, decided to sign a pre-contract (pre-Correa joined, iirc) to leave in January 2031 to lower league Siete Villas. His replacement is Adrián Chaves, a 16yo from the U19s. Chaves is the only other DM in the entire club, with no transfers possible due to no wage budget and no bonuses available for non-contract termed players. Who knew the squad situation could get worse.

Thanks for reading! Next Update: January + February (?).

The Save So Far:

It has been busy!

That was the conundrum with Glacis, I just felt the gaps to make any progress were too large, for example to the next position up it was almost double our points tally - it's quite a top-heavy division. It was also a big step down (per FM itself) and they had many loan players.

On the other hand, perhaps Correa could've eventually earned a poaching from Lincoln Red Imps or St. Joseph's, which would've been a nice trophy-laiden job to get.

023: A familiar feeling.

After a first pre-season start to a job, Diego Correa now takes Andorra into Segunda Federación action to begin 2030-31 for real.

One new signing did arrive before the season's beginning. Not sure how the DoF managed it financially, but in came right winger Roberto Alarcón. A useful addition, given the squad didn't have proper RW before.

How about that for a first day of the season… against a promoted team, no less. Terrassa claimed a big time win on their return to the fourth tier, as an Iker Uria own-goal was followed by strikes from Iván Martín, Ion Bautista and Ayouba Koné.

Peña Deportiva made it two defeats in two next time out, as Abdelkadar Benamara got the only goal of the game.

A point was belatedly put on the board on matchday three, as Formentera were held to a 1-1 draw. Ander Sesma with Andorra's first goal of the campaign, though it was sadly cancelled out by Iñaki.

Back-to-back draws! New signing Roberto Alarcón grabbed the opener here on 9 minutes, before Óscar Rosende and Gabriel Funes turned the game on its head around the middle of the second half. Ander Sesma, however, would pop up a few mintues before the full-time whistle to force a tie.

A loss came back around on 22 September, as Villarreal C won 1-0 at the Estadi de la FAF thanks to Luis Miguel's early strike.

Around this time, the already small and not-so-talented squad was raided by the Andorran national teams in the international break. The Segunda Federación does not stop for nationals, nor do they apparently allow you to postpone a match when you have excessive call-ups. So the image below shows what Correa & Co. were left with. Amusingly, even the U19s and B-team were raided, so there was just like six players to take from those teams.

So, naturally, Andorra actually won despite kids aplenty and many out of position players. Funny! Ander Sesma got a hat-trick, cancelling out Adrià Mora's penalty for Laredo.

Those issues remained for the subsequent league match at Alcoyano, but were actually made even worse. One further international call-up, plus two 19yos were all of a sudden ineligible due to not counting as U19 in the squad registration; despite playing in the last match. Odd! Again, though, it barely hindered Andorra, who secured a point after Israel García equalised Nacho Vizcaino's penalty opener.

A home match with Poblense came next, with the aforementioned issues persisting. They ran out narrow one-nil victors here, after Florin Matiș converted a late penalty; the third spot-kick conceded by Andorra in as many games. A decent run of three matches, all things considered. The ‘best’ players returned from internationals after this, so things should only get better.

Psych! The first eleven got battered. Álex Almansa, Fadiala Fofana and Adrián Bobi (2) secured a 4-1 rivalry win for Lleida. A Borja Pérez OG had put Andorra ahead in minute one.

Mallorca B also got a win over Andorra, not that that's anything worth shouting about. Michael Whyte with the clincher here.

Andorra stopped the rot in October's final fixture, as they stood firm to experience a goalless draw away to Atlético Baleares.

Bad news: Andorra are bottom of the table. Good news: Diego Correa won't officially get the future relegation on his record, because he'll be sacked long before then. I don't think the Argentine is cut out for management? Just a hunch.🤪

Should Diego Correa last until the end of 2030, here's what awaits in November and December. La Nucía and Guadalajara are the only good-looking encounters to come.

Thanks for reading! Next Update: November + December (?).

The Save So Far:

022: A first pre-season with Andorra.

Diego Correa guides the Andorrans through pre-season ahead of the 2030-31 season. I would now usually share the transfers but I cannot, as no signings have been made. The finances are even more barebones than anticipated, so it's most certainly a ‘work with what you’ve got' sorta first season (at least) for the Argentine.

Grau-du-Roi were the first opponents of pre-season on the pitch. The French amateurs claimed a somewhat noteworthy penalty shoot-out win, after goals for each side from Paul Issartel and Ugo Breuil led to a 1-1 draw in normal time.

Carbonne, another amateur side from the country that Andorra borders to the north, were beaten in friendly #2. Amaury Vila did get one for the Frenchmen, but a goal from Israel García and a double from Marcos García gave Correa his first unofficial win in charge of Els Tricolors.

Andorra took a third and final trip across the border to France to face amateur team Saint Clément Montferrier in the penultimate exhibition encounter. FCA won 4-1, as Nahum Matos and Pablo Quintero hit braces. Alexandre Romero got one for SCM.

The final friendly match was on home turf in Andorra la Vella versus nearby Toulouse 2. The Ligue 2 side's B-team won on penalties, as Andorra ended their preparation period with the same outcome that began it weeks prior. Pablo Quintero's 42nd minute goal looked like it would give FCA a win, though Dylan Cathala struck in stoppage time to force penalties; which T2 won after a lengthy shoot-out.

An iffy pre-season session, not helped by the lack of summer transfer activity and some key injuries to an already small squad; most notably to ‘keeper Víctor Aroca. who’ll miss the opening few league matches.

It's going to be interesting to see how Andorra go this season. Diego Correa will be happy with anything that isn't a relegation fight, I'd say. As mentioned previously, it's promoted Terrassa at home to kickstart 2030-31. September is action-packed with 7 games to play, before 4 more across October.

Thanks for reading! Next Update: September + October.

The Save So Far:

021: Hoping for something longer-term.

After short stints of contrasting outcomes at Europa and Glacis United, Diego Correa was hoping to return to Spain for the 2030-31 campaign and regain a sense of stability; à la that three-year spell with Xerez Deportivo, which feels a very long time ago now. So, another job search. Spoiler: this one wasn't eventful.

Look who it is: FC Andorra. The team based in the eponymous microstate offered Mr. Correa a job interview without a prior application in the early stages of 2029-30, when they were struggling in the third tier of Spanish football. They were, as expected, relegated at the end of that season. Now, ahead of 2030-31, they've offered another interview to the Argentine; who did apply this time. Perhaps it's written in the stars…

Correa wasted no time in accepting the offer from Andorra, in what will be the first time in his managerial career that he has been given a pre-season start.

In an interesting twist of fate, the move reunites Diego Correa with director of football Víctor Marrero - who was his DoF at Europa! How eerie. Small world and all that.

FC Andorra 🇦🇩 were founded - as the first Andorran football club - in 1942. They have played their football in Spain since 1963, despite always been based in the microstate of Andorra; which is located between Spain and France. After two seasons in the Catalan second tier, the team moved into the top tier in the region for 1965-66. Three top five finishes were bookended by low placings of 14th and 20th, the latter of which saw relegation back to tier two. Andorra would return at the first of asking, subsequenting spending six seasons in Regional Preferente before promotion to the Tercera División in 1977.

Three seasons after making it into the Spanish footballing pyramid for the first time, Andorra would go up a level again in 1980 after finishing atop Group 4 of the fourth tier. Between 1980-81 and 1997-98, Els Tricolors spent all but one campaign - 1986-87 - in Segunda División B (tier three); notably finishing 2nd in 1988-89. Andorra unfortunately returned to the regional leagues for 1999-00 after successive relegations. They'd go back to the Tercera División for one season in 2001-02, but by 2004-05 the club had suffered three straight relegations down to the seventh tier of Spain's structure.

Andorra would largely meander, but eventually progress up, the Catalan regional leagues between 2004-05 and 2018-19. During that aforementioned season, the club was purchased by a business group headed by former Barcelona defender Gerard Piqué. 18-19 concluded with promotion out of the Catalonia top tier and into the pyramid proper for the first time since 2001-02. However, they would skip the Tercera División after purchasing (reportedly for €452,022) the Segunda División B spot of expelled club Reus. In 2021-22, Andorra won promotion from (new third tier) Primera Federación to the Segunda División, marking their first foray into Spain's second tier. They were relegated after two campaigns, but returned with promotion play-off success in 2024-25.

In-game, Andorra were relegated from the second tier in 2025-26. The subsequent two campaigns would see solid, if unspectactular, higher mid-table finishes, but 2028-29 (same group as when Correa was at Europa) would only see them survive relegation by five points. In 2029-30, relegation would come their way as they dropped down to play fourth tier ball for the first time since 2001-02 (having skipped it in 2019-20). They play home matches at the Estadi de la FAF in Encamp, Andorra (cap. 5,108).

The fourth job of Diego Correa's managerial career got underway on 9 July 2030. As a relegated team, they ought to be having a decent season at this level; the media predict them to place 9th, as it stands. They'll be playing in Group 3 of Segunda Federación, which follows the same format as when Correa was with Xerez Deportivo between 2025 and 2028. 1st are promoted, 2nd-5th into lengthy promotion play-offs, 13th likely relegation play-off, 14th-18th relegated. The finances are tight, but that seems common place across this level of the Spanish game.

According to the staff (which doesn't include an assistant manager yet; one is incoming via Mr. Marrero's choice, though), Víctor Aroca and Israel García are the standout players.

As already noted, it will be the first time that Diego Correa has joined a club in pre-season. After that period of time, newly-promoted Terrassa will be the first oppo of the new Segunda Federación campaign.

That's all for the current, here's something about the past. Xerez Deportivo were promoted to tier three last season, all the while Europa were comfortably getting relegated to tier five. The Argentine sent over his respective congratulations and commiserations, as he was particularly delighted for Xerez; who he still holds fondness for.

Thanks for reading! Next Update: Pre-Season.

The Save So Far:

020: Off to Gibraltar.

After that failure of a stint at Europa in 2028-29, Diego Correa decided to drop down a level to spend (the rest of) 2029-30 with Gibraltarian side Glacis United. He penned a short-term deal with The Clarets, with the move reportedly only functioning as a quasi-interim stint - with it's intention being to help Glacis end their final five league matches on a high and to give Correa a bit of more a slow-moving but still morale-boosting spell away from his adopted homeland of Spain.

Correa made his debut as Glacis United coach on 11 January 2030, as UEFA Champions League qualifying hopefuls Manchester 62 were met at Victoria Stadium. Despite a 19 point gap between the two teams in the standings, it turned out to be a close encounter in front 183 supporters. Stéphane Favret gave The Red Devils of Gibraltar a fourth-minute lead, though an Ismael Gomes penalty got The Clarets level twenty-one minutes after. Unfortunately for the Argentine's team, another penalty arrived in the second half for Man 62 - with Diogo Barbosa dispatching it for a 2-1 win.

Lions were up next. The club founded in 1966 would take victory with a 4-2 scoreline. Carlos Flood put The Clarets ahead on 17 minutes and despite an equaliser from Kye Livingstone (a stunning free-kick), Glacis Utd would retake the lead on 65 minutes through right winger Carl Orsing. The final 15 minutes or so would sadly see Glacis collapse to a 4-2 defeat via João Carvalheiro, Kelvin Morgan and Will Sanders goals, but there was again promise here; versus a team around a decent amount of points away.

Then came Gibraltar's biggest club: Lincoln Red Imps. The league leaders - who had lost just twice and had only conceded 12 times - would ease to a 4-1 success, with a Juan Rodríguez brace being followed by strikes from Rodri and Jamal Jimoh-Aloba. Michael Ruiz did score for Glacis Utd for 3-1, which is no mean feat given the opposition.

February opened with the start of the Rock Cup, as Lions were met again. This time, Diego Correa secured his first win as Glacis United boss as goals from Carlos Flood and Carl Orsing sent The Clarets into the quarter-finals. João Carvalheiro's late goal for Lions thankfully meant little.

In the club's subsequent match, Correa picked up his first victory in league action as fellow strugglers College 75 were easily beaten 4-1 thanks to a superb four goals from Michael Ruiz. College did, at least, get a consolation via Isaac Vinet. Despite those early losses, Glacis United had produced respectable performances in every game since their manager's appointment, so it was nice to see the rewards finally come through.

…and next time out, something special happened.

Lincoln Red Imps were knocked out of the Rock Cup quarter-finals! An astonishing result, as a 23rd-minute goal from Michael Ruiz was enough to eliminate the giants of Gibraltar. It was an absolute smash-and-grab job, but what a win that is - arguably the best of Diego Correa's career thus far.

The second best team in this British Overseas Territory was next on the agenda in the Gibraltar Football League: St. Joseph's. They were chasing Lincoln Red Imps and took a comfortable 4-0 win here, as Job Ochieng hit a brace to go with Javi Feria and Mohamed Akogo goals. This wasn't a good result for more than one reason: we had also been drawn against The Saints in the cup semi-finals…

That rematch with St. Joseph's was played a week after that GFL match-up, this time it was actually tight. Lightning incredibly almost struck twice in the Rock Cup, as an early Max Cottrell goal looked like it might send Glacis United hurtling towards another huge cupset. However, despite taking the semi-final to extra time, it was the big team that came out victorious in the end. Mauro Bandeira equalised on 52mins, before a Borja Alonso penalty on 101mins sent The Saints into the final. So close! Much pride, though.

On the final day of the regular season, there was some disappointment as lowly Hound Dogs held Glacis United to a 1-1 tie. Alberto Valdivia had put them ahead on 64 minutes, but Michael Ruiz rescued a point on 78 minutes. That single point, though, was actually helpful, as seen in the table below.

It might look it on first view, but that was actually a positive impact from Diego Correa at Glacis United. To make the fourth-bottom team (on arrival) more than competitive in most (if not all) matches and to reach the cup semi-finals by defeating (eventual league champions; Europa FC won the cup) Lincoln Red Imps, it was an enjoyable stint in Gibraltar for the Argentine. The Clarets ended up finishing a place higher in 8th.

It was indeed just a small, interim-esque stint in charge of Glacis United. In a post-resignation interview, the Mar del Plata-born manager spoke happily about his time on the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula, thanking the team for reinvigorating him with something different ahead of a hopeful return to the Spanish leagues in July. The club's hierarchy were also pleased with the Argentine's (expectedly short) impact and wished Correa well for the future.

Thanks for reading! Next Update: New Job!

The Save So Far:

019: Correa's next job.

Quicker than he would've wanted, Diego Correa finds himself back at the job centre.

Within days of leaving Europa, fellow relegated (albeit from the other group) Primera Federación side CD Ibiza offered Correa an interview; despite no application put in by the Argentine. Correa went to the interview out of respect, but would eventually turn down a job offer due to being unconvinced by the Ibiza project. Most of their player contracts were expiriing within weeks and their finances went looking overly good.

As 2029-30 began in earnest, numerous newly-promoted fourth tier teams came in for Mr. Correa; including Portuguese team Serpa. All received interviews of this type were politely declined - aside from two.

Atlético Albacete and Cirbonero - both promoted to the Segunda Federación - did interest Correa enough to attend an interview. He wasn't sure about either prospect, but both teams were predicted by the media to have high-placed upcoming seasons; the former are Albacete's B team, so had a professional set-up to offer. In the end, neither team selected Correa anyway.

Two other Spanish offers came to Diego, one from tier four Real Union and one from tier three (another B team) Valencia Mestalla. The result was the same as last time as no job offers were forthcoming.

FC Andorra, a Primera Federación outfit fighting relegation as of November 2029, offered an interview out of the blue, but Correa - albeit tempted - declined due to the inescapable feeling of the job being Europa 2.0. 

Salamanca (tier four) decided against offering Correa a job post-interview, while Linense (tier three, but again Europa-esque) and Segoviana interviews were turned down.

Then came an interview from Glacis United of the Gibraltar Football League…

…and then a job offer, which Diego Correa somewhat surprisingly accepted.

Glacis United Football Club 🇬🇮 were formed in 1965. They joined the Gibraltar Premier Division and instantly saw success, as they won their first title in 1965-66. The Clarets would then win eight top-flight trophies on the trot, only being stopped in 1974-75 by Manchester United (nowadays known as Manchester 62). Glacis would regain their spot as Gibraltar's best in the subsequent 1975-76. The 1980s would see five more titles, before they got no. 16 & 17 across 1996-97 and 1999-00. Throughout this period, United would also win the Rock Cup five times.

From 2000-01 onwards, the club has fallen heavily from those heights. Only two triumphs in the Pepe Reyes Cup (Gibraltar's Community Shield equivalent) have happened; in 2000 and 2005. The small-teamed league (no more than 7 teams across most of this era) would mostly see Glacis United as their third-best side, though 2012-13 did see the club finish in last place; but relegation was averted thanks to the league's expansion following UEFA acceptance of Gibraltar. Aside from 2016-17 when they placed 4th, Glacis were largely a bottom half club in the GPD.

In 2019, the new Gibraltar National League (renamed the GFL in 2022) was formed. United have had some minor positive seasons (i.e. reaching the top half championship round) in the early 2020s, but have mostly remained one of the weaker Gibraltarian sides. In-game, Glacis United have seen 8th, 4th, 6th and 6th finishes come their way. They play their football at the Victoria Stadium, which is where every club in Gibraltar play.

Diego Correa - in what is his first top division job - takes charge on 17 December 2029. Glacis United only have five matches remaining in the 22-game Gibraltar Football League, though do also have the Rock Cup starting up in January. It is a step down, though Correa wanted a change of scenary for his next gig; after that painful spell with Europa. And an interesting opportunity came from Glacis United, who are 17-time champions of Gibraltar (only bettered by Lincoln Red Imps and the defunct Prince of Wales) but are without top-flight success since the turn of the century.

Correa only pens a contract until the end of the current season, which is just five league matches away. The local media are widely reporting that this short-term deal serves as a taster, with a departure in a couple of months just as likely as a renewal. The only objective is for this campaign: don't finish bottom. The Clarets sit 9th, five points clear of current basement boys Europa Point. 8th is likely the best possible outcome for 2029-30, given the gap to 7th is already at nine points. So far: W3. D2. L11. GF10. GA24. GD-14. 11pts. That record is the best of the bottom five teams in the division.

The squad is fairly small but a decent one, per the staff. Michael Ruiz, a 29yo striker with one Gibraltar international cap, is apparently the best player.

5th, 6th, 1st, 8th, 2nd + 11th are on the fixture to conclude the season for Glacis United. As noted, at least one cup game will also be added. Short, but how sweet?

Thanks for reading! Next Update: January + February + March.

The Save So Far:

018: Can Correa save face?

His impact on Europa has been hideous. The team were admittedly struggling before his arrival, though Escapulados' season has more certainly taking a further step for the worse since the Argentine arrived. With relegation all but confirmed, the final few months of 2028-29 were simply about adding some tiny pride back for everyone involved.

"It defies description! How about 'sensational'? How about 'superb'?"

Incredible scenes in Oviedo, as Diego Correa claims his first win as Europa manager - only took the fella 16 matches in charge!

The only bright spark from the Argentine's tenure so far has been 17-year-old striker Pascasio Bonoha, who was promoted into the first-team set-up by Correa himself. The Equatoguinean has paid that faith back (relatively-speaking) 100 times over by scoring thrice across the last few months. Here, Bonoha's two goals - plus one from Adri Lledó - sealed a come from behind road victory; Alberto had initially put Real Oviedo Vetusta ahead.

A defeat would return for Europa next, though it was still a decent display as FC Andorra narrowly ran out 2-1 victors; thanks to Miguel Castañón and Sydney Osazuwa. Pascasio Bonoha had put his side in front inside the opening minute, making it 6 goals for the impressive youngster now.

A point was obtained in game #3 on March 2029, as Real Sociedad B (editor's note: Correa has now faced all three Real Sociedad teams now - quirky tidbit) were held to a 2-2 draw. It was one that also saw Europa come from two goals down, after Lander Astiazaran and Iker Arratibel had put the hosts two to the good. David Carmona, from the penalty spot, and that kid again, Pascasio Bonoha, dramatically stopped Europa from tasting yet more defeat.

That three-game spark was extinguished in Europa's subsequent league fixture, as Cultural Leonesa comfortably won 2-0 with Abou Bassinga and Marc Domènech netting.

Another clearcut loss followed, as play-off place side Lugo secured a 3-0 victory on 1 April 2029. Michał Żuk struck first, before Leo Salazar notched a brace. This result belatedly confirmed Europa's relegation to the fourth tier; their first time in that division since 2026-27.

A second win! Remarkable. Sestao River - the team above Europa in the table - were defeated on this occasion, as Joan Miquel Burgos and Mikel Montero (o.g.) secured only the club's fourth success of the league campaign (plus one in the cup). You might remember that Correa's debut as Europa boss was an away loss to Sestao River. How different things might have been if this result had occurred back in November.

…and back down to earth. Promotion-chasing San Sebastián de los Reyes easily beat Europa on matchday 34. Sofiane El Ftouhi, Albert Sanchís and Jacobo de Oro got on the scoresheet at Nuevo Matapiñonera.

Another win for Europa?! Amazing what can happen when the pressure is lifted (or when a new FM patch is released, who's to say?). Rayo Cantabria were put to the sword, damaging their survival hopes as they were hammered at the Estadi Johan Cruyff by an Adrià Almasqué hat-trick. Three goals + clean sheet = dreamland!

Rayo Majadahonda, promotion play-off outsiders, were stopped to open May's action, as Europa gained a relatively impressive goalless draw away from home.

After this game, director of football Víctor Marrero decided to give an instant free transfer to best player Nil Vicens; who had, admittedly, just agreed with Diego Correa to depart soon in the future. ‘Ya couldn’t have waited a few more weeks, Víctor?!

On the penultimate day of the season, Europa added another bonus point to their tally by holding now mid-table Unionistas. Pascasio Bonoha, who is surely the Player of the Season despite only playing half of it, netted again for the game's opener, though José Luis Béjar would level things for the visitors on 80 minutes.

Pascasio Bonoha: my hero, my mate. I'll be following your career with interest, sweet prince.

Girona B, the team that thrashed Correa's Europa 6-1 earlier in the season and that was already promoted as champions (having lost just once), expectedly eased past Escapulados on the campaign's final day. Alejandro Quiroz scored four times in that 6-1, further scoring twice in this encounter; Toni López got the third.

The season is, thankfully, done and dusted. Europa, of course, bottom, with Real Oviedo Vetusta, Rayo Cantabria, Avilés Industrial and Sestao River joining them in tier four in 2029-30. Oviedo and Rayo went down by a point, so their respective late-in-season losses to Europa were critical - dragging 'em down with us!

After the Girona B fixture, the board finally called a meeting to discuss Diego Correa's future as manager. In the end, it was mutually agreed that Correa would resign.

A rather harrowing second job for Mr. Correa. Here's hoping for better in job no. 3!

Thanks for reading! Next Update: New Job!

The Save So Far:

That's a good way to view it! Evidently, the wrong choice of next job for the Argentine.

017: Can Correa save Europa?

Diego Correa's first two months (one and a half, really) in charge of third tier Europa could not be described as anything other than a calamity. 8 games, 7 defeats, 1 draw. They headed into the New Year eleven points away from survival. It was now or never to save the club's season.

An away trip to Olot opened 2029. Omar El Amrani would equalise for Europa, but it would turn out to be a fifth consecutive defeat for Escapulados after host goals from Marti Puigbert and Ivan Breñé.

One week later, another loss arrived at the hands of Atlético Astorga. Álex Pérez and Martín Ochoa secured a 2-0 win for the Castile and León-based club.

The losing rot was ended in game three of January 2029, as Numancia were held to a 1-1 tie. Adrià Almasqué put home side Europa ahead on 7 minutes, before Santino Samuyiwa levelled for the visitors thirty minutes later. It was a rare even game for Europa to partake in.

The month of the transfer window concluded with a 2-0 loss at the Estadi Johan Cruyff to Ponferradina, as Vicente Esquerdo and Unai Ropero got on the scoresheet. Speaking of transfers, none were made despite absolute need for newcomers. Simply put, Europa have no money to spend; even non-contract terms were a no-go as bonuses like an appearance fee were limited to £1 (no, that's not a typo). The only new squad members since Correa joined are inexperienced youth lads.

Logroñés continued the resumption of Europa's losing streak, despite minor promise being shown by the eventual losers. Jeremy de León, Abraham Villar and David Robles put UDL deservedly 3-0 ahead, but Europa would make a game of things by scoring twice just after the hour mark through 17yo striker Pascasio Bonoha; a kid promoted from the youth teams by Correa. Sadly, the aforementioned Robles ended any comeback hopes by netting for 4-2 on 80mins.

Another defeat came next time out, as Racing de Ferrol claimed a 2-1 road victory at Europa. Pascasio Bonoha impressively scored for the second match running, but the Equatoguinean's goal was only shortlived excitement as Cedric found an equaliser nine minutes later. Racing would end up winning thanks to Álvaro Juan on 78 minutes.

Ahead of the next match, the media began speculating on Diego Correa's future. About time, really.

That next fixture was derby day against Sant Andreu. Unfortunately, just like in rivalry matches with former club Xerez Deportivo, Diego Correa failed to lead a team to victory against a rival as Sant Andreu easily won by three unanswered goals; from Garry (2) and Carlos Blanco.

February 2029 ended with a 3-0 defeat on home turf to relegation-threatened Avilés Industrial. Nacho Puente and Josu Juste (2) struck.

The yikes continue. No win across 15 games in charge for the Argentine, with Europa absolutely rooted to the bottom of the standings; even 10 points off the team above. 18pts is the gap to safety, so relegation will be confirmed any day now. More surprisingly, Diego Correa remains in the job; with no board meetings in sight. Europa did give him a contract until June 2030, so perhaps they were fully expecting this disaster?

11 games are left, spread across March, April and May. They'll be playing teams either fighting for promotion or staving off relegation, with those in mid-table already faced. There are basically two questions from a Europa point of view: Will Correa win a game? Will Correa last into next season? Obviously, my answers would be leaning towards no on both counts. What an absolute shocker of a new job.

Thanks for reading! Next Update: March + April + May (?).

The Save So Far:

016: Can Correa get Europa running?

Diego Correa joins third tier Europa mid-season in November 2028, with the team sat in the relegation spots and adrift of safety by 5 points. His first game in charge was with the even more struggling Sestao River, so there was a good opportunity to start life in Catalonia positively.

No positivity here! Correa suffers a damaging debut match in charge of Europa, who lose 1-0 to bottom side Sestao River. An early spot-kick scored by Iñigo Gomeza was the difference, though in truth the hosts dominated this encounter.

Next up was a home bow against promotion-chasing San Sebastián de los Reyes. Sanse, as they're also known, were convincing 4-1 winners, with Albert Sanchís' opener being followed by a Sofiane El Ftouhi hat-trick. David Carmona got Europa's first goal of Diego Correa's reign.

A first point on the board was belatedly achieved in game three, as Rayo Cantabria - sat above the drop zone at this time - were drawn 2-2 with. It was a match that saw Europa produce outstanding fight, as they recovered from 2-0 down (Rober Bringas and Rafa Delgado) to clinch a point thanks to goals from Omar El Amrani and Joan Miquel Burgos. Something to build upon?

Next up was a Copa del Rey second round tie with La Liga side Real Sociedad. It doesn't get any easier, eh?

The La Liga club secured a 2-0 victory at the Estadi Johan Cruyff, but third tier Europa put in a resilient display that saw them hold the top-flight giants to 0-0 until just after the hour mark. The away team's quality eventually shone through via Carlos Soler (it took a great free-kick) and Jon Karrikaburu. Funnily enough, this made for the best display of Diego Correa's tenure thus far.

Next time out, back in Primera Federación, another loss arrived at Europa's door as Rayo Majadahonda narrowly won 1-0. Mauro Echegoyen netted an early penalty, which made for an eerily similar match scenario to Correa's November debut versus Sestao River.

Unionistas were the next club to take advantage of Europa's terrible form, claiming a 1-0 success at Reina Sofía with a goal from Juan Carlos Mas.

December ended with the worst result of Diego Correa's managerial career. The division's bottom club were thrashed 6-1 at home by table-topping Girona B, with Mamadou Bah and Daniel Armașu opening the scoring that also saw Alejandro Quiroz net four consecutive times. Sure they sat top, but there was no sugarcoating this.

What an impact from Diego Correa! A negative impact, sure… but an impact! No victory yet. Those final two November games were as good as it got for Europa.

This could end up being an Ange Postecoglou-esque short spell for the Argentine if things don't improve immediately. It's not looking positive, especially as all of their next 8 fixtures are against teams currently sat outside of the relegation zone. The board, supporters and players are already getting irritable too, understandably so.

Thanks for reading! Next Update: January + February (if he makes it that far).

The Save So Far:

015: Where next?

Off the back of ending his two-and-a-half year tenure with Xerez Deportivo, Diego Correa went into 2028-29 without a club. His intentions were to remain in Spain, but with Portugal or Gibraltar open in his mind too.

The first team to come in for Correa were Portuguese Liga 3 team Louletano. The Argentine had planned to take a few months break before returning to management, but this was an opportunity that intrigued him - so attend the interview he certainly did. Unfortunately, Louletano went elsewhere, despite being pleased with how the interview went. Tiago Mota would end up with the job.

Then came an opportunity to remain in Spain, as third tier Algeciras granted Correa an interview. Again, though, the opportunity did not arrive at the Argentine's feet.

Fast forward into November 2028, when the next interview came via another Spanish third tier (Primera Federación) team in Catalonia-based Europa. They are struggling early on, but Correa was eager to get back in management and was more than open to test himself in a higher division.

Another interview came his way from Antequera, a club in a similar-ish position to Europa (albeit in a different group). However, upon comparing the two outfits, the Argentine would show respect to Europa, who approached him with a contract immediately after Antequera's interest. Off to Catalonia he goes!

Club Esportiu Europa 🇪🇸 were founded in 1907 and are based in the city of Barcelona, which is situated in the autonomous community of Catalonia; northeastern Spain. They were formed off the back of local teams Provençal FC and Madrid de Barcelona FC, eventually taking their current name after gaining their entry into the Catalan system by paying off debts for another team called Europa FC. The 1920s saw the club's peak, when they were regarded as the second best team in the region - after FC Barcelona. They were runners-up in the Copa del Rey in 1923, before being invited to participate in the first season of La Liga six years later.

After that period of success, the club would end up suffering a troubling time across the 1930s. After three seasons in La Liga, Escapulados were relegated in 1931. During that year, Europa actually merged with Gràcia FC due to financial issues; subsequently taking the name Catalunya FC. This fusion did not last long, with the team ceasing to exist in 1932. However, amidst those events, fans of the original Europa club created an amateur team to keep the name alive - and, following the demise of Catalunya, would eventually gain the rights to the original Europa club. They would move up and down the Catalan regionals, though progress was hindered due to the Spanish Civil War and footballing pyramid restructuring.

In 1951, after further regional years, Europa were promoted into the third tier of Spanish football; the Tercera División. They would remain there with steady seasons across the next decade or so, before gaining promotion to the second tier in 1963; having missed out in the play-offs a year prior. Europa remained in tier two for five campaigns, even placing 3rd in 1963-64. They would be dropped down a division four years later due to further league reorganization. Escapulados would go through yo-yoing between the bottom pyramid level and to the regional game across the next three decades or so, though would win the prestigious Copa Catalunya twice in 1997 and 1998.

Between 2000 and 2021, Europa spent the vast majority of their years sitting in the Tercera División (fourth tier; fifth nowadays), eventually gaining promotion in 2020-21 to the Segunda Federación for 2021-22. They remained there for three out of the subsequent four seasons (despite relegation in 2021-22). In 2024-25, the club would be promoted to Primera Federación; their first campaign in a third tier since 1994-95. In this save, Europa were relegated in 2025-26 to Segunda Federación. They returned to their current division at the first of asking, placing 2nd and winning the play-offs in 2026-27. In 2027-28, they finished a respectable 8th.

Europa play their football at the Estadi Johan Cruyff in-game, despite seemingly playing at Nou Sardenya in real life. The stadium is, obviously, named after the Dutch football legend and has a capacity of 5,280 (though in-game it says ‘currently reduced to…’ but a bug is hiding the rest of the text - turns out it was redevelopment, att. increased by a few hundred seats). Opened in 2019, it is located 7km from the Spotify Nou Camp.

Diego Correa has been appointed on 6 November 2028, as Europa sit inside the relegation zone in 19th (of 20) with a record of: P13, W2, D3, L8, GF 9, GA 15, GD -6, PTS 9. The current gap to safety is 5 points with 25 matches remaining. As for the league's format: 2 groups of 20 teams, both in 1st get promoted with 2nd-5th going into (two-legged, semi-final + final) promotion play-offs. 16th-20th get relegated, while - unlike the league below - there are no relegation play-off spots.

The Argentine's first match in charge will be away to Sestao River, who are already 8 points adrift (of Europa) at the foot of the table - so a winning start is absolutely vital.

According to the pre-existing staff, Spanish midfielder Nil Vicens is undoubtedly the team's best player. It's a small squad at just 18 senior players, but the U19 and B teams are stocked so squad expansion could come quicker than the upcoming transfer window; though despite a £5k transfer budget, wages are stretched so only £97 remains in the budget with no adjustment currently allowed by the board due to a lack of excess wage.

Time for Diego Correa to get to work! It's a tough-looking job with relegation a strong possibility, though the Argentine wanted an in at a tier 3 club and he has got one. It's up to Correa to make it work. Europa have given him a two-year contract until June 2030, so there's a chance he'd remain even with relegation; but let's hope we don't find out.

Thanks for reading! Next Update: November + December.

The Save So Far:

014: Diego Correa's final games in charge?

With play-offs extremely likely to be out of the picture for Xerez Deportivo with 8 games to play, there were local reports that the Argentine would step down at the campaign's conclusion; with his contract ending in June.

Firstly, the (playing for pride) run-in. A goal from Diego Iglesias in the 18th minute gave Correa's boys a 1-0 win over Extremadura to open March 2028.

A week after, Elche Ilicitano proved too strong for Xerez Deportivo as the play-off hopefuls ran out 3-0 victors on home turf. Álvaro Padilla, Walid El Miri and Mateo Sciancalepore with the goals.

The team were well and truly battered last time out, though in their following fixture it was Xerez Deportivo who were dominant - not that the scoreline showed it. Real Sociedad C, who were relegated with this result, got deservedly beaten on MD29 after Rubén Mesa and Diego Iglesias got on the scoresheet; Javi Jiménez had given a minute 14 lead for the eventual losers, which they somehow managed to hold until the second half.

Huétor Vega sat a place above basement boys Real Sociedad C, but came away from a meeting with mid-table Xerez Deportivo as the winners. Cristian Palacios, not the first time against Correa's team, scored for the away side here, going on to notch a brace. These three points kept their relegation at bay, for a little while longer at least.

At the start of April 2028, Real Jaén - another opponent fighting the drop - got a 1-0 victory at home to Xerez Deportivo, who were evidently on the end of season beach already. Pedro Luis Alberich netted this encounter's sole goal.

A fourth straight match with relegation fodder (couldn't have asked for a ‘better’ fixture list on paper, but then again these teams are fighting for their lives) occurred on the antepenultimate day of the season, with El Palo visiting the Estadio Municipal de Chapín. They were defeated 1-0 after an early Iker Gil goal, which meant their place in next season's Tercera Federación was now confirmed.

On the penultimate day, Xerez Deportivo hampered Águilas' promotion play-off ambitions by beating them 3-1. Carlos Camacho, Diego Iglesias and Iker Gil were the guys with goals. Aleix Enríquez got the oppo's only strike. The Murcia club, however, would end up getting their desired play-off spot.

The final matchday of the campaign meant barely anything for Xerez Deportivo, though it was majorly important for two other teams: their rivals Xerez and table toppers Recreativo Huelva, who were in a two-way fight for top spot and automatic promotion to Primera Federación. Correa's team faced the latter, meaning they could stop their big rivals from clinching promotion directly. Recreativo would beat XD 3-1 thanks to Aitor Gismera (2) and Antonio Caballero, with Diego Iglesias grabbing Correa's only goal.

Xerez didn't officially make any big deal out of the situation, but social media was abuzz with question marks regarding Xerez Deportivo's lacklustre performance in Huelva.

A hit-and-miss end to the campaign, as somewhat expected given the lack of shiny things to focus on. 4 wins, 4 losses.

That leaves Xerez Deportivo 9th, which practically matches Diego Correa's tally of finishes at the club after 8th and 7th across 2025-26 and 2026-27.

Recreativo Huelva, as noted, were the champions, while only Eldense (3rd) made it through the promotion play-offs. Xerez CD didn't make it, to Deportivo fan delight.

Down the bottom, it was UCAM Murcia (via play-offs), Real Jaén, El Palo, Yeclano Deportivo, Huétor Vega and Real Sociedad C who were relegated.

The Copa del Rey, for what it's worth, was won by Real Madrid.

It was indeed Diego Correa's final season as manager of Xerez Deportivo. After 90 games in charge across two-and-a-half seasons, which saw him claim 40 victories with a win percentage of 44.44%, the Argentine departs the wonderful Estadio Municipal de Chapín. Sadly he couldn't guide them to promotion, that second season that saw the team atop the table for so long, still stings, though at least they weren't ever anywere near relegation - which was possible when he arrived back in November 2025.

Correa will remember Xerecistas with immense fondness and who knows, maybe he'll return at some point in the future - you simply never know in football. For now, it's goodbye and onto the next challenge. He mentioned to a local paper post-resignation that he aims - after a short break away - to remain in Spain, though is open to heading to nearby Portugal or Gibraltar.

Thanks for reading! Next Update: New Job!

The Save So Far:

013: Hoping to build on some promise.

November and December was undoubtedly a damaging period in 2027-28 for Xerez Deportivo. However, based on a tactical tweak and a win last time out, there were possible bright signs to build upon.

January 2028 saw two new players join Diego Correa's ranks, both by virtue of the DoF-acting assistant manager Alejandro Alepuz. Diego Robles (23, ESP) is the new starting left-back, while Álvaro Justo is almost (not quite, as others are ahead of him in the pecking order) the belated replacement for Roberto; who, if you remember, had his release clause activated by Liga Portugal team Torreense back in mid-September, annoyingly after our Spanish transfer window had closed.

On the pitch, Xerez Deportivo started the year with a 2-0 victory over lowly San Roque. Carlos Camacho and Diego Iglesias, as has often felt the case this season, came up with the goals.

Unfortunately, points were dropped in 2028's next fixture as struggling UCAM Murcia stopped Xerez Deportivo from winning - and they almost came out victorious themselves. James put them 1-0 up on 87mins, though thankfully for Diego Correa & Co. an equaliser was found through Diego Iglesias on 93mins.

A win was secured next time out, thus extending the unbeaten streak of Xerecistas to four matches. Yeclano Deportivo, fighting relegation, did take a 1st-minute lead via Iván Martínez, but the hosts hit back hard as Carlos Camacho and Diego Iglesias popped up with doubles for 4-1.

Xerez Deportivo exacted revenge on play-off hopefuls Almería B to conclude January, making amends for a 3-0 home loss to Almeriensistas back in November by claiming a nice 2-1 road win. They did concede early for the second consecutive match through Yago Paredes, but - like last game - recovered to win; Carlos Camacho and a Rafa Parejo penalty was the difference here.

The five-match unbeaten streak came to an end in February's first fixture, as a David Ruiz goal just before the hour mark condemned Diego Correa's team to defeat versus promotion contenders Eldense.

Xerez were the opposition on 13 February. Based on the past, you will not be surprised to learn that Xerez Deportivo did not beat their big rivals. Carlos Camacho's levelling of Nané García's opener did at least secure a point (versus a team knocked off top spot as a result) but that's six without a victory for Correa vs. Xerez.

A poor result came Correa & Xerez's way in the penultimate February encounter, as relegation-threatened Linense beat them 2-1. Asier García and Diego Domínguez scored their all-important goals, overcoming Iker Gil's 44th-minute equaliser.

The final match of February 2028 was at home to Sevilla Atlético, as Rubén Mesa and Iker Gil scored inside the opening 30 minutes. An own-goal from Carlos Daniel got the away club back in it on 42 minutes, though the fellow mid-table outfit couldn't find that much desired leveller.

A better few months, but still a damaging-enough ones as the play-offs are almost certainly out of reach now with the gap at 12 points with 24 points left available. For completion's sake, the club also sit 12 points clear of the relegation places (13th = likely play-off).

The final two months of the campaign features 8 matches. March has three opponents currently behind Xerez, with April starting with two in the bottom half and ending with two of the current top three.

Diego Correa's contract does expiry in June, with local media reporting that the Argentine is considering a departure at the season's end; whether contract talks arrive from Xerez Deportivo or not. More to follow.

Thanks for reading! Next Update: March + April.

The Save So Far:

012: Winning ways need returning.

Diego Correa's Xerez Deportivo got their 2027-28 campaign started in fine fettle, winning 5 of their opening 6 league fixtures across August and September. However, an unacceptable October saw Xerecistas go winless with back-to-back defeats to end the month. Things had to change.

It wasn't a loss for Xerez Deportivo to begin this period, but it wasn't much better as struggling Real Sociedad C held their hosts to a 1-1 draw. Carlos Camacho got Xerez on their way on 9 minutes, though that was as good as it got for them with Daniel Santos equalised for Sociedad on 48 minutes.

Huétor Vega were beaten in November's second match, as Diego Iglesias and Iker Gil struck to give their side a first set of three points after six games without one. Cristian Palacios had actually equalised for the relegation-threatened home team, so plain sailing this was not.

Xerez Deportivo failed to build upon that victory, as play-off chasers Almería B visited the Estadio Municipal de Chapín and went away with a hammering win. Marciano Sanca got a brace, either side of a Zinedine Seba goal.

Then came the run of five tough fixtures, with all opponents sat inside the division's top five at the beginning of November. First up was Eldense, who claimed an unfortunately simple 2-0 triumph thanks to Javi Sola and Marc Roquet.

Then came the derby with Xerez, who yet again got the better of Diego Correa; he is yet to beat these rivals. Xerez Deportivo didn't turn up yet again but almost eked out a somewhart precious point, though a 94th minute dagger arrived from the all too familiar Jaime Lopez (his third goal against Correa in the save).

In December's opener, things didn't improve as Águilas inflicted another loss on Xerez Deportivo. Brain Chinedu and Kevin Manzano hit braces, with Carlos Camacho and Iker Gil getting on the scoresheet for XD. Their opposition deserved to win, but Xerez did at least play better in this one; the scoreline was harsh.

On 12 December 2027, Recreativo Huelva made it 5 straight defeats for Diego Correa's team. Ilias Charid did give them a lead on 42mins, but that lasted a matter of seconds with Iván Salguero levelling for Recreativo; who'd go on to win thanks to a goal from Antonio Caballero. It was another result that could be deemed unjust, promising signs were shown as Diego Correa - after trying a couple of other systems during this run of losses - finally implented a new tactic that showed some promise.

…and that promise finally clicked through in 2027's finale away at promotion-chasing Marbella. Rafa Parejo put Correa's side ahead inside the opening minute, with Julen Ekiza and Parejo again striking before half-time to put Xerecistas in dreamland. José Cambra got his second goal of the campaign versus Xerez on 63 minutes, but Marbella couldn't muster anything further. The losing streak is over, hallelujah!

A painful two months, no doubt about it. However, a bit like when Diego Correa first took over at Chapín and changed things after a poor beginning, there is reason to be hopeful going forward thanks to initially positive tactical changes. Xerez Deportivo go into 2028 sitting 9th, which isn't actually as bad as I thought it was going to be based on that atrocious form. 8 points is the gap to the play-offs with 16 games left, so a big run is going to be needed if Correa & Co. want play-off football.

January 2028 offers a near-perfect run of fixtures to confirm whether or not the new 4-4-2 diamond tactic does indeed work. San Roque, UCAM Murcia and Yeclano Deportivo are fighting relegation so ought to be beatable, while the month ends with one of the more weaker (relatively speaking, they did just spank XD 3-0 after all) play-off chasers in Almería B. February, meanwhile, is a mixed month of oppo. Despite all this bad form, Correa has kept dressing room happiness narrowly alive and the board and supporters are just about content.

Thanks for reading! Next Update: January + February.

The Save So Far:

Based on what's happened across Diego's 24 months, more or less, in charge now is that this squad does blow hot and cold. A struggle saw Correa able to get the job in the first place but then promotion play-offs were almost secured, then in that first full season it was great for six months before a collapse and already this campaign they've gone up and then sharply down. That's gonna take some sorting!

011: Another flying start?

Following a short but fruitful pre-season, Xerez Deportivo went into 2027-28 looking to replicate their blistering start to the preceding campaign. Would they?

Before the competitive campaign got underway properly, two new signings were made. It was previously noted that a back-up striker to Carlos Camacho was needed, given the latter was the only senior forward in the squad. Diego Correa ended up snapping up not one but two new players that can play upfront. Rubén Mesa (35, ESP) initially joined on trial across the friendly period and, although he barely featured, impressed the Argentine enough to earn a non-contract termed deal. Next in, also on non-contract terms, was Iker Gil (22, ESP), who was an unexpected find - so much so that there were instant rumours that Gil would displace fellow summer signing Camacho from the XI.

On the opening day of the official season, Xerez Deportivo did indeed begin in a great vein of form as newly-promoted Yeclano Deportivo were dispatched with a 5-1 away victory. Iker Gil hadn't completed his move just yet, so Calos Camacho was the starting striker at La Constitución and how glad Diego Correa was with that fact as Camacho hit a 47-minute hat-trick! Ilias Charid, meanwhile, struck twice.

Xerez Deportivo made it two wins on the bounce on matchday two, as recently-relegated UCAM Murcia were sent packing with a 3-0 defeat. Ilias Charid scored again, with Diego Iglesias and third-choice new forward Rubén Mesa netting on debut as a late substitute.

In September's second match, Elche Ilicitano were beaten 2-1 to extend Xerez Deportivo's winning streak to three matches to start 2027-28. Diego Iglesias with a brace.

That winning beginning was ended in game four, as promoted El Palo ran out 2-1 victors in Málaga. Lauren Egea and Kevin Castro with the goals for the fellow Andalusians, as centre-back Mauro Lucero got one back late on for Correa's team.

In the days after that match, Xerez Deportivo suffered a major midfield loss as Roberto's release clause was activated by Portuguese club Torreense. The Spanish window had already slammed shut, so no replacement could be found for the Real Madrid youth product. £210k is, at least, a good fee for a club like Correa's.

A meeting with fellow promotion hopefuls Real Jaén arrived on 19th September, with Xerecistas claiming triumph as Iker Gil hit a double across a four-minute spell early in the second half. Pablo García made it a tense finale by getting one back for the visitors, though Xerez would hold firm.

Iker Gil then hit a second consecutive brace next time out away at Extremadura, another opponent that will likely be in the play-off hunt. Quite the impact from Gil, who around this point became the starting striker - largely due to an lengthy injury to left winger Ilias Charid (back in November), so forward Carlos Camacho had to move out there as he is the only other attacking option for that position.

Linense - broken record: another promotion contender - were met to open October's action. The match ended in a 1-1 draw, as Diego Iglesias equalised Víctor Mingo's go ahead goal for the visiting club.

Another tie followed, as Sevilla Atlético - a team struggling early on despite getting play-off football last campaign - hosted Xerez Deportivo. Tamiou Kpebane and Eric Alcaide netted early first half goals to give the hosts a lead at half-time, though thankfully Iker Gil hit a third brace for the club to salvage a point.

A week later, recently-relegated Marbella came to the Estadio Municipal de Chapín and went back home with a draw. Two goals arrived across two first half minutes, as José Cambra scored on 38 minutes for the guests before Diego Iglesias levelled for the home team on 39mins.

San Roque, just promoted, condemned Xerez Deportivo to a bad 3-0 loss in October's penultimate match, as Alberto Rubio, Bakary Traoré and Raúl Ruiz grabbed goals. A bad day at the office.

October's conclusion saw Diego Correa make his managerial debut in the Copa del Rey. It would be a short first stint in Spain's premier cup competition, as third tier Ourense snuck past their fourth tier opponents with a narrow 1-0 win. Adrià Mercadal got an even game's only goal. The match was scheduled for the midweek prior, though was postponted due to a waterlogged pitch.

It was a great start to the campaign for Diego Correa's Xerez Deportivo, but a winless October sees them slide down to 7th heading into the festive period. They do have a game in hand though (due to the cup rearrangement) at home to early relegation contenders Real Sociedad C, so a win there would close the gap to 1st to just three points.

That aforementioned Sociedad C game is to come in a few days to open November, which also sees matches with Huétor Vega, Almería B, Eldense and rivals Xerez. Those last two November fixtures start a rough-looking period for Xerez Deportivo, given it opens a run of subsequent fixtures with Águilas, Recreativo Huelva and Marbella - so they'll be facing all of the current top five back-to-back. On the one hand: a perfect chance to get back on top. On the other: a slippery slide down the rankings may arrive.

Thanks for reading! Next Update: November + December.

The Save So Far: