Espanyol boss Javier Aguirre has revealed that he is pleased with the squad he has assembled this summer.
Despite operating with a restricted budget, the Mexican has been able to sign the likes of Gabriel Torje, Pizzi and David Lopez this summer.
"I am grateful for the effort made in a sporting direction and to our president. We have a competitive squad and one that is in line with the budget. We have lowered the payroll a lot," Aguirre told reporters at a press conference.
"The salaries are now in line with the reality of Spanish football and there is a lot of competition in the squad. I think that we will be competitive, fight well. I hope that we can be a surprise. From sixth place down to 20th is open in the league. The top five are a step up, designed for Europe."
Espanyol currently sit sixth in La Liga.