Real Mallorca vs Espanyol preview - Mixed feelings for Marquez

Posted Saturday, August 18, 2012 by PA

Real Mallorca midfielder Javi Marquez has admitted it will be strange sensation for him to make his debut for the Islanders against Espanyol this weekend.

Marquez spent seven years with Los Pericos before swapping Barcelona for the Balearics this summer but he said that sentimental feelings will have no affect once the match starts.

He told Mallorca's website: "It is a unique game because I was there for many years.

"It brings back a lot of memories but once the game begins those will go. I will think about the game, about performing well, helping my team and hopefully Mallorca will get the victory."

The 26-year-old has been a rare addition to Joaquin Caparros' squad this summer, and following the departures of 10 players the Basque club have a squad of only 17 outfield players.

Marquez is unfazed, however, and said: "Those responsible at the club are working in the best way possible to bring more components to the squad. If they don't arrive then we are happy to play with what we have.

"We will do well, we have confidence in one another and will all help each other."

Former Atletico Madrid captain Antonio Lopez is also expected to make his debut on Saturday, while Emilio Nsue will probably deputise at right-back for the departed Pau Cendros.

Espanyol face similar problems to their opponents as they have lost a host of players who were on loan deals last season, but defender Raul Rodriguez believes they can remain competitive.

He told the club's website: "I see the start to this year as similar to last season. I remember that people said the squad wasn't prepared and in the end we weren't a weak team but one challenging for the Champions and Europa League."

Rodriguez is a doubt for the game in Palma with a niggling knee injury picked up in pre-season, while summer signing Diego Colotto will also miss the first few weeks of the season with a foot injury.