Álex Collado faces a tough spell for Elche as injuries mount
A vulnerable Elche side contends with a growing list of injuries as Pablo Machín navigates a challenging spell. The concern centers on Álex Collado, the midfielder on loan from FC Barcelona, whose fitness has become a pressing issue for the squad. The sudden setback adds to the squad’s mounting casualty list and immediate concerns about performance and depth for upcoming fixtures.
Elche was set to play a crucial King’s Cup fixture in Ceuta this Tuesday at 21:00, followed by a key LaLiga clash with Celta on Friday at 18:30. Collado was absent from Monday’s training at the Díez Iborra field within the Juan Ángel Romero Sports City complex, as the team assessed the extent of his adductor strain and mapped a cautious return plan.
Machín stated that medical tests would determine the full scope of the injury. He emphasized that this type of muscle issue can escalate quickly if players continue to push through discomfort, describing the situation as unfortunate and noting that bad luck often accompanies such injuries. He added that the adverse event feels even tougher given the timing and the squad’s current form.
Photographs from Monday’s session captured the intensity of a squad facing a delicate balance between recovery and preparation for the next challenge. The gym and pitch work underlined how the team is trying to maintain performance levels while navigating a tense period.
The Elche coach also commented on the mental strain generated by the current situation, noting that tension can affect players physically and raise the risk of further injuries. The team’s efforts are aimed at maintaining focus and readiness despite the difficulties surrounding selection and availability.
Rumors surrounding Collado’s situation have circulated in media circles, with speculation about potential transfers and club plans. The Elche squad has a contract framework with Barcelona that includes a transfer percentage clause, a detail that has fed conversations about future moves. The club has made clear that decisions will align with on-field performance and strategic goals, and that any outcomes will be handled through proper channels in the transfer market.
Álex Collado’s absence compounds a broader disruption within the squad. On the same day, Loanees and fringe players faced a heavy workload as the coaching staff prepared a compact matchday squad. Pol Lirola reported joining the group again after a brief layoff due to a muscle issue, with Machín indicating that Lirola would not be available for the Ceuta match but could be involved later in the week depending on progress. The manager’s assessment pointed to a focus on upcoming fixtures against Ceuta and Celta, with decisions driven by the players’ condition and match readiness.
The injury list also includes the well-known absences of John Chetauya, Josan Ferrández, and Nico Fernández Mercau, leaving Machín with a limited pool of available first-team options. Only 19 players were selected for the cup tie against Ceuta, with several youth-team players stepping up to supplement the squad. Carles Marco, Manu Cocca, and Alejandro Alfaro joined the group to complete the roster alongside goalkeeper Jesús López as the team prepared for the cup encounter.
As the club weighs its lineup, several senior players were anticipated to be rested for the Ceuta match, with a view to having stronger options for the Friday showdown with Celta. Names such as Edgar Badía, Helibelton Palacios, Carlos Clerc, Pedro Bigas, Mascarell, Raúl Guti, Pere Milla, Roger, and Lucas Boyé were all considered potential reserves for the Ceuta game, keeping energy reserves for the tougher league match ahead.
In the starting lineup for Ceuta, Axel Werner led a youthful setup that included Carles Marco in the right flank, Roco and Gonzalo in defense, with Diego González forming the central shield. Lautaro were noted as a left-sided option with the potential to contribute in midfield. The team’s tactical approach aimed to balance discipline with the opportunity to exploit space in the opponent’s half.
Machín spoke about the return of key players and the importance of a measured recovery. He highlighted Enzo (Roco) as a veteran presence who has shown patience and steady progress in training. The coach stressed the potential value this player can bring when fully integrated into match duties, expressing optimism about regaining form and consistency across official competitions. He also addressed rumors about the club’s stance on certain players, assuring supporters that the management’s decisions would reflect the best interests of Elche.
Regarding Fidel, Machín noted a lengthy rehabilitation process and explained that while 100 percent readiness might not be achieved for the Ceuta game, the team is hopeful that Fidel can contribute soon. The manager underscored the desire to see the forward display his usual agility and impact when called upon, recognizing the unique qualities he brings to the attack.
Overall, the squad faced a demanding schedule with careful planning to maximize performance while protecting players from overuse. The combination of injuries and strategic rotations will shape the lineup as Elche aims to balance cup ambitions with league responsibilities, keeping a clear eye on Friday’s pivotal encounter with Celta and the longer-term objective of climbing the standings.