Elche CF undertakes a preparatory phase led by the new coach Pablo Machín at the Oliva Nova Golf Hotel, in the Valencian community. Christian Bragarnik, the club’s owner, traveled from Argentina to oversee the team in person, following a recent trip to Spain to watch matches live.
The club’s major shareholder was spotted in one of the private boxes at Lusail Iconic Stadium during a tense Sunday match. The match featured a controversial moment involving the blue and white team from Mexico. The Argentines faced a tough challenge but managed to respond with resilience, earning a victory after a challenging start to the group stage. The goals came from Leo Messi and Enzo Fernández in the second half, delivering a hopeful result for their campaign.
Bragarnik appeared in multiple social media posts alongside Argentine fans and FIFA president Gianni Infantino. In Argentina, Bragarnik is often referred to as the owner of the Ball for his extensive influence across clubs, players, and the Argentine Football Association (AFA). The image with Infantino further underscored his connections with leaders in world football.
The shareholder alternates his time between Elche and his homeland, balancing the summer window with strategic plans. In July and August, he focused on the transfer market, then departed for Argentina on September 1, the last day of that market, only to return in October. His most recent public appearance occurred on October 14, at a press conference announcing the arrival of Jorge Almirón as the new coach. After matches against Valencia, Real Madrid, and Espanyol, he returned to his country and then negotiated Almirón’s move and engagement from abroad.
Bragarnik addressed Elche fans with a direct message, expressing renewed confidence and a belief that unity can secure the team’s place in the league. He stated that he intends to stay strong and work with everyone to ensure the club remains competitive.
Bragarnik has not attended the last two fixtures against Getafe and Girona but has voiced strong criticisms of the club’s leadership and fan relations. He responded with a letter to supporters, acknowledging possible missteps and pledging to take decisive actions to alter the club’s trajectory. The shareholder’s remit includes strengthening staff, overseeing registrations and cancellations, and guiding the summer market strategy. Although the transfer window does not reopen until January, the focus remains on rebuilding momentum while the World Cup in Qatar offers a brief pause for reflection and strategy alignment with the Argentine national team. [Citation: Club records and public statements]