Alvarito returns to the squad after passing the final practice evaluation
On Sunday, Alvarito was ready to rejoin the group after successfully clearing the latest evaluation during the concluding training session. He trained with his teammates, building on-field chemistry and stepping back into the lineup as part of a plan to strengthen the attack. Coach Torrecilla has long prioritized wing play, and the winger’s inclusion is seen as a pivotal component of Hercules’ strategy to challenge for a top-five finish this season.
The Madrid forward had recently recovered from a second-degree ankle injury sustained in the friendly against Cartagena B at La Manga Club in San Javier on August 16. He required a full two weeks to move past discomfort, focus on collective dynamics, and ensure readiness for Alicante’s season opener scheduled for this Sunday. The match is set for 20:00 at Jose Rico Perez, with Espanyol’s reserve side visiting for the league debut.
Alvarito’s return colors Hercules’ Cartagena win as a positive note
In the wake of a 0-1 victory recorded four days after the friendly season opened, the club reported a strong surge in membership that exceeded early expectations. The campaign had targeted roughly 5,500 members, with optimism leaning toward reaching around 6,000 season cards by opening day. Alvarito’s presence brought relief to the coaching staff, allowing him to be incorporated into offensive plans during warm-up friendlies while he continued his gradual return from the ankle issue. The rehabilitation for Nico Espinosa remains underway as he works toward peak fitness for 90 minutes on match day.
The team recognizes the importance of keeping players fit through the early stages of the season, balancing development with immediate competition needs. Alvarito’s return adds depth on the frontline, enabling the coach to test different attacking combinations and sustain momentum through the opening fixtures. The squad focuses on maximizing cohesion as new pieces settle in and the tactical blueprint takes shape.
Screening confirms no serious ankle damage for Alvarito
During pre-season friendlies, Alvarito did not score, but his movement showed an ability to create space and link plays. This allowed Lolo Escobar’s evolving role to be tested, pushing him into zones where his offensive qualities could shine. The coach favors an attacking approach with a natural right-footed player providing speed, dribbling, and the option to cross or cut inside to feed teammates. This setup complements the partner on the opposite wing, enabling occasional positional swaps that reflect the summer’s dynamics.
Approach
The coaching staff has outlined a compact four-man defense supported by two holding midfielders, three dynamic midfielders, and a single reference point in attack. This configuration has defined Hercules’ pre-season philosophy and has given the squad stability and control during friendlies as the summer period progressed. The shape allows quick transitions and supports aggressive pressing when possession moves forward, while maintaining balance across the middle and the backline.
At the start of 2023, Alvarito chose not to extend his contract beyond the agreed two-year term signed last summer, marking him as one of the club’s valuable assets. Returning from vacation and rejoining the squad, he found himself back in the mix with the team, reigniting the spark that marked the opening phase of the 22/23 campaign. His experience and versatility remain crucial as the club navigates the season ahead.
The ankle incident was not as severe as initially feared; it occurred after a fall on the hard turf at the Murcian tourist complex. Recovery followed a period of inflammation, after which the medical staff facilitated a careful return to full training at Fontcalent. The focus remains on building a robust routine that ensures he can contribute across multiple fixtures. In prior seasons, he has delivered important contributions, including pivotal goals in the early rounds and consistent performances when the squad needed him most, though playoff challenges curtailed a rise to higher tiers.
Sunday marks a key moment as Hercules prepares for a decisive phase of the campaign. The club is evaluating potential signings and squad depth to strengthen the push for promotion. Discussions around a striker from Real Murcia and a potential move for a defender from Deportivo de La Coruña are part of ongoing strategic considerations. The aim is to assemble a competitive roster capable of meeting the demands of a rigorous schedule while balancing youth prospects with experienced players. The coaching staff remains optimistic about closing the right deals to support the club’s ambitions for the season ahead.
[Citation: Hercules FC press release, season overview and player update.]