On Sunday, the players of Elche CF left the Martínez Valero stadium with heads bowed. The setback against Athletic Club marked another tough moment early in the season, a reminder that the team still has work to do to regain its footing.
The coach granted a rest day yesterday, typically a recovery session the day after a match. With this week’s game scheduled for Saturday, the manager decided to give the squad a break and then run four consecutive training sessions to gear up for the upcoming clash at Camp Nou against FC Barcelona.
Away from the daily bustle surrounding Martínez Valero, the players had time to recharge and reflect with family and friends. The team understands that, beyond tactical issues and the coach’s selections, there is room for improvement and a push to perform at a higher level.
The priority is to clear the mind and regain focus. As the squad captain commented after Sundays’ game, the group trained with intensity last week, but that effort did not translate into results on the field.
Discussions continue about the challenge ahead. Facing Xavi Hernández’s Barcelona is a formidable, complex test. The aim is to stay calm, approach the game with a clear plan, and perhaps pull off a surprise that would provide a meaningful lift during a difficult period for the club.