Elche CF Update: Recovery Progress and Upcoming Challenge
Following a rest day, the team returned to training at 9:30 a.m. this Wednesday. The head coach, Francisco, remains focused on keeping his players mentally resilient after a 4-0 defeat at Villarreal last Sunday. He will also assess the progress of players who have been sidelined. Fidel Chaves, Pol Lirola, and Gonzalo Verdu, who were unavailable against Castellón, are among those under consideration.
Fidel is expected to rejoin the squad after missing the last three fixtures against Almeria, Real Sociedad, and Villarreal. The Huelva winger suffered a fibrillar tear in his thigh on the opening matchday of La Liga at the stadium. Benito Villamarin will host Betis in the upcoming clash.
The recovery period, completed on Monday, lasted roughly three weeks. The winger is gradually reintroducing himself to the group. In recent sessions, he has participated at the same pace as teammates on Friday, Saturday, and Monday. If his progress remains positive and no setbacks arise, he should be available to Francisco, though it could be premature for him to start.
Fidel Chaves’ return is pivotal for the squad. The Huelva native has stood out in recent seasons. While age has tempered his initial pace, he has evolved into a midfielder who can slow the tempo, hold the ball, and feed the final pass. This is a dimension the Franciverde side has lacked at the season’s start and could be revived with his presence.
Chaves is an influential figure both on and off the field. In these challenging times for Elche, his leadership is anticipated to bring stability, much like rain in May.
Wednesday’s workout, intense after a rest day, is expected to be decisive for gauging his fitness and determining whether he is ready for the upcoming challenge. Sunday’s 16:15 kickoff against Athletic Club de Bilbao could benefit from additional left-wing options if Fidel is fit, with Tete Morente having featured in recent matches.
Pol Lirola is another name to watch. The veteran right-back picked up an adductor issue during the halftime break against Real Sociedad, complicating his availability for Villarreal. The Catalan player has been in treatment in recent days and will be tested again today.
In his absence, Colombian Helibelton Palacios filled in on the right flank. Lirola, one of the season’s notable arrivals, is known for making a difference when fit and on form.
The captain, Gonzalo Verdu, will have to wait another week to return. The center-back hopes to resume training next week and be ready for the Barcelona match.
Following the rest day, the team’s session will reconvene at 9:30 a.m. on Wednesday. The coach’s main concern remains the emotional well-being of the squad after the tough loss, while also monitoring the progress of injured players and mapping out a plan for the next fixtures. Fidel Chaves, Pol Lirola, and Gonzalo Verdu will be evaluated for their readiness ahead of the next league clash.
In the weeks ahead, Fidel Chaves’ fitness will be a crucial barometer for Elche. The winger turned midfielder’s experience and vision could unlock more scoring opportunities and balance the midfield’s tempo. His return may also enable Francisco to diversify attacking routes, especially on the left flank, contributing to a more flexible tactical approach against strong opponents.
The ongoing recovery of Lirola will determine how aggressively the team presses from wide areas. When available, the right-back’s speed and directness can add width and crossing options that complement the team’s central playmaking. His health status remains a primary focus for the medical staff as the season progresses.
Verdu’s return timetable remains cautious. The captain’s leadership and organizational skills are expected to help stabilize the defense and coordinate the backline as Elche eyes upcoming matches, including the Barcelona game in the near future.