Elche CF conducted a light training session this Friday at the Juan Ángel Romero Sports City, on the Díez Iborra field. The activity began a bit later than usual, at half past nine, instead of the typical half past ten, to allow players a shorter day and an earlier finish since there is no league action during the holiday period and many players will be with their families. This adjustment also takes advantage of the extended break provided by international matches, giving the squad a chance to recharge before the upcoming fixtures.
The squad has two days of relaxation ahead to clear their minds and enjoy time with loved ones before a pivotal stretch of competition begins next week. Elche will face two league matches: on Monday, October 3 at Vallecas, with a 21:00 kickoff against Rayo Vallecano, and on Monday, October 10 at the Martínez Valero stadium against Mallorca at 09:00 local time. These encounters will be crucial for the team’s trajectory as they seek to rebound after collecting just one point from the first eighteen available in the season’s opening games.
Several players have the chance to return home or take a brief trip away from the city to unwind and reconnect with family and friends before the demanding slate of matches resumes.
The next training session is scheduled for Monday at 10:30, on the Díez Iborra area. It will be the moment to begin preparations for the clash with Vallecanos and to assess the physical condition of players who have carried minor ailments and reduced their workload in recent days.
For the Rayo match, Francisco will be without some key pieces. Gonzalo Verdú faced a sanction after a red card in the penalties stage against FC Barcelona at Camp Nou and will be unavailable for this important clash. Fidel Chávez will also miss the fixture as he recovers from a minor injury and is not cleared to participate. The Huelva winger is dealing with a hamstring micro-tear in the right leg and is expected to be sidelined for at least two weeks. Peter Bigas, the Mallorcan defender, withdrew from the previous match due to muscle issues and has not trained this week due to a calf strain. His participation remains doubtful as the team assesses his readiness for Vallecas. A few others, meanwhile, may be checked closer to match day to gauge their status for the trip and game conditions.
Players anticipated to be fit enough to face Rayo include Omar Mascarell, Tete Morente, Javier Pastore known as El Flaco, and Diego González. The Cadiz-born midfielder had to remain in Spain to follow a targeted recovery plan designed to overcome an Achilles tendon issue and will be evaluated for improvements as the week progresses. The Canary Islands winger, the Argentine playmaker, and the Andalusian center-back are also dealing with minor muscle concerns that do not currently threaten their involvement but will require careful monitoring ahead of the Vallecas encounter. These assessments will shape the roster decisions and strategy as the team aims to maximize its competitiveness during the busy schedule ahead.
(Citation: Club Elche CF press materials provide the event overview and injury updates.)