Beccacece: “Leaving Elche would be painful, but accountability remains clear and honest”
Elche are finally smiling after a worrying start to the season, which led to the coach’s dismissal and an ultimatum issued nearly a month ago before facing Andorra. The team faced a pressure-filled period, but the discontent seemed to fade as results improved and the squad responded to the call for greater focus and intensity.
Since the coaching change, the Elche squad has earned 10 points from their last 12 available. Huesca achieved wins against Andorra at home and Tenerife at Martínez Valero recently, while the derby energy turned electric as Zubiaurre denied a late Franjiverde victory with a spectacular save. The positive results suggested the players embraced the coach’s guidance and rededicated themselves to the club’s plan.
Yet Elche’s progress comes with caveats. Two players who share a position are dealing with injuries, leaving a gap in the attack. Sergio León and Borja Garcés have both been sidelined, complicating Beccacece’s selection and tactical approach. León is expected to miss action until 2024 due to an ongoing muscle issue, while Garcés is dealing with a new setback that prevented him from finishing the latest match. Tenerife looms as a potential test for the team as it looks to maintain momentum without its usual striking options.
Elche returned with a 2-1 victory that reinforced the club’s current momentum. With León and Garcés out, there was a clear window for a potential third striker to emerge. Mourad remained with the squad as a contingency and was ready to seize a chance should the opportunity arise. The forward, who had spent time on loan in the lower divisions, has been waiting for a moment to demonstrate his growth and readiness to contribute at this level.
Alternative for the injured
On a recent Saturday Mourad had to contribute for a short spell, entering the action with minimal preparation. He found it challenging at first, but grew into the role in the second half, becoming more involved in the build-up and offering defensive support as the clock wore on. His effort helped sustain the team’s forward push and defensive balance through the closing stages.
Elche’s style of play could unlock Mourad’s potential and help him convert chances more consistently. In recent seasons he showed goal instincts, scoring 16 times in 63 matches for Alcoyano, and adding several goals for Burgos. To secure a regular first-team place, he will need to raise those numbers and prove himself against established forwards in the squad, including Sergio León and Borja Garcés who are sidelined for now.
Another option for the Franjiverde coaching staff is to utilize a “false nine” approach. Oscar Plano and Nico Fernández Mercau have both shown signs of growing confidence as the season progresses, giving Beccacece flexibility in attack and movement without relying on a traditional number nine.
Young prospects also feature as potential solutions. Nordin has shown promise in training and the bench, and Beccacece has acknowledged his qualities while stressing patience in his development. The youngster, who impressed in the junior leagues last season, is seen as having pace, technique, and a keen goal-scoring sense. Mexican Jesús Hernández, who played for Ilicitano, could offer another option, though his non-EU status currently keeps him from regular first-team involvement.
Looking ahead, Elche faces a week packed with fixtures. The club travels for a Copa del Rey tie against Europa and then hosts Albacete in the league. If Garcés’s absence persists, the staff will need to devise a plan to maintain scoring depth and sustain the current positive run without a traditional number nine.