Elche CF: Status of Edgar Badia Ahead of Bilbao Clash and Team Training Update
Elche’s starting goalkeeper, Edgar Badia, resumed training this morning at the Díez Iborra football field, though he returned without joining the rest of the group as confirmed by Elche’s media session. The club arranged special work with rebounder Miguel Escalona as part of a focused program designed to prepare him for the upcoming match against Athletic Club Bilbao. The kickoff is scheduled for Sunday at 16:15 local time, and the coaching staff is intent on ensuring Badia is ready to compete.
Badia has been dealing with a bit of back discomfort since the previous match. The team experienced a demanding fourth game day, played at La Liga stadium Ciutat de València, where the hosts delivered a strong 4-0 result. The back issue has kept the goalkeeper from full participation at times, but the medical and coaching teams remain hopeful that he can return to full fitness in time for the next fixture.
For the upcoming game, expectations are that Badia will be ready for action. There is still one more training session planned, which will be crucial for assessing his status and confirming his availability. The coaching staff will need to balance caution with the necessity of having a trusted goalkeeper between the posts for what promises to be a challenging clash.
In the near term, Elche CF head coach Francisco Rodriguez is slated to hold a press conference where additional details about Badia’s condition and the squad’s readiness may be shared. The session is anticipated to offer clarity on whether Badia will be involved from the start or serve as a substitute option on match day.
Meanwhile, the rest of the first-team squad trained with the group this morning under difficult conditions, with intense heat affecting the session. The session showcased high tempo and a demanding routine, aimed at maintaining peak physical condition while integrating any tactical adjustments ahead of the Bilbao match. Francisco was able to rely on nearly the entire squad, which is a positive sign for depth and rotation options.
Gonzalo Verdú remains the notable absence as he continues his recovery. The other players dealing with minor muscle discomfort, such as Fidel Chaves, Pol Lirola, and Omar Mascarell, participated fully and trained at the same level as their teammates. This level of participation keeps the coach’s plans flexible, allowing for a range of lineup possibilities depending on fitness updates from the medical staff.
As the club moves closer to the match day, fans and staff alike will be watching for the official injury update and the final confirmation of Badia’s availability. The focus remains on delivering a strong performance against Bilbao, backed by a comprehensive preparation program and a squad ready to adapt as needed. The weekend fixture is a key moment in Elche’s season as they seek positive results and momentum in the domestic campaign.