Francis Rodriguez, coach of Elche CF, spoke at this Friday’s pre-match press conference ahead of the LaLiga Santander third matchday. The encounter is scheduled for Saturday at 17:30, at the Martínez Valero stadium, where Elche will host Real Sociedad.
The Franjiverde manager expressed confidence in his squad, stressing that it will be a different test from the Almería game and that he remains calm about the potential departure of Mojica, whom he sees as highly driven and fully integrated into the group.
How is the team faring after the improvement shown against Almería?
Winning remains the primary objective for everyone. All pathways were explored, and yet the desired result did not arrive. A fresh, productive training week followed, with reinforcements gradually finding their rhythm and boosting competitiveness. Returning home, the team approaches the match with boundless enthusiasm. In LaLiga, every game poses its own challenge, and Elche will have to execute perfectly to overcome Real Sociedad.
What is the latest on Mojica? Could he be forced out by the market?
There are good players in the squad, and the situation will only be clear on the final day of the transfer window. The aim remains to keep the squad intact for the season. There has been no official club communication yet. Rumors are natural given his status as one of Spain’s top left-backs. The coach remains calm because Mojica is committed to the project and trains with conviction. His colleagues see him as equally committed, which in turn fuels optimism.
Is a contingency plan in place for the market’s final hours?
A Plan B has always existed. Bragarnik knows how to manage time and has alternatives ready. However, since Johan is not a current consideration for departure, the market should close before the season starts. Three days is not enough time for any market to wrap up. All coaches share this sentiment, hoping the terms end soon.
Any news on potential arrivals?
The coach has said it would be beneficial to bring in new players. The club has always valued what it already possesses and those who want to be part of the project.
What about Jeison Murillo’s potential?
Murillo is a skilled footballer who could fit well in the squad. Yet the level of Elche’s central defenders against Almería has been strong, and any newcomer would need to match that standard and contribute immediately.
How is Lucas Boye progressing?
Boy has been gradually returning to action. He played 25 minutes against Almería and is recovering steadily. The forward will soon be ready to start again.
And the Pope?
The player has shown great enthusiasm, appearing for a few minutes on Monday. He trained less in the pre-season but has been integrated with the group for two weeks and is expected to improve quickly in minutes on the pitch.
What is the outlook for Real Sociedad without Isak?
Having watched their friendlies and league fixtures, Real Sociedad remains a team delivering high-quality football, with a compact build and smart movement in attack. They possess excellent players and some of the best ball control in the division. They beat Elche last season, so Elche will need to bring out their best form to secure a victory.
How will this match differ from the Almería game?
There will be differences. The team must adapt rapidly, close gaps when not in possession, and avoid trying to steal the ball in every moment. It will be a tougher test than Almería, but Elche aims to press in the areas that matter most. In the last day, alongside Almería, Elche showcased the highest physical capacity and consistently reached dangerous zones, even without numerous chances.
Francis Rodriguez, coach of Elche CF, spoke again at the press conference ahead of the clash with Real Sociedad on Saturday at Martínez Valero.
The Franjiverde mentor reiterated his belief in his squad, highlighted the contrast with the Almería match, and expressed confidence in Mojica’s commitment and potential ongoing market movements. The plan remains flexible, with the coaching staff ready to adapt should personnel changes occur, while maintaining a focus on a strong home performance against a highly capable Real Sociedad side.
In summary, the coach emphasized the value of the players available, the importance of staying compact defensively, and the need to exploit spaces at the right moments. Real Sociedad’s style, built on patient build-up and precise ball control, will demand Elche execute with discipline and energy from the first whistle to the final minutes.