### RCD Espanyol's Relegation Battle: 15th Place and 3 Points Behind the Relegation Zone

The 2022-23 season for RCD Espanyol has been one to forget, as the Barcelona-based club found themselves staring at the brink of relegation. Despite their status as one of Spain's historic giants, Espanyol ended the campaign in a disappointing 15th place, just three points away from the relegation zone. This finish marks a low point in the club's recent history, raising questions about their ability to compete at the highest level and their strategy for the future.

### A Season of Struggle

Espanyol entered the season with expectations of a mid-table finish, but their campaign unravelled under the weight of poor form and inconsistent performances. Manager Rubi played a pivotal role in assembling a squad capable of challenging for a top-half finish, but the results never materialized. The club relied heavily on key players like Raúl de Tomás and star midfielder Vicente Iborra, but injuries and lack of cohesion in attack proved too much to overcome.

### League Standings and Relegation Drama

The final standings revealed a stark reality: Espanyol finished 15th, three points above the relegation zone that would have seen them drop down to La Liga 2. This near miss is a somber reminder of how close the club came to a shock relegation. While they avoided the drop, the margin was slim, and the season ended with a sense of anticlimination for the Espanyol faithful.

### Home and Away Struggles

Espanyol's performance at home was a mixed bag, with victories against top-tier opposition interspersed with surprising defeats. Their away form, however, was a major culprit. Matches on the road saw Espanyol frequently concede early goals, leaving them to play catch-up, a strategy that rarely worked. This inconsistency contributed to their poor overall record and ultimately cost them a chance to secure a safer mid-table finish.

### Implications for the Future

The season has left Espanyol with a lot to think about. Financial constraints and a reliance on youth development have been evident, and the club may need to invest heavily in the transfer market to rebuild. The departure of key players like Iborra and the arrival of new signings will be crucial in determining whether Espanyol can bounce back next season.

### A Fan Base's Disappointment

Espanyol's loyal fans have every right to be frustrated. A club with a rich history and a proud tradition should not find itself in such a precarious position. The season has highlighted the challenges of competing with the big boys, and Espanyol must find a way to bridge the gap if they are to return to their former glory.

In the end, while the season ended without relegation, the narrow escape has served as a wake-up call. Espanyol must learn from their mistakes and work on addressing the issues that have plagued their performance. The pressure is on for Rubi and the club's hierarchy to ensure that next season is a turning point, not just a repeat of the same struggles.