Just four months after Elche CF claimed a 0-1 victory at Villamarín, the Elche group returns to its principality to unveil the opening acts of La Liga’s 2022-2023 season.
On that occasion, Tete Morente’s goal lifted the franciverde community, and the same venue hosts the next clash this Monday at 9:30 PM. Francisco’s squad aims to surprise Betis again, despite the roster changes caused by sanctions and difficulties in registering players, with renewals delayed due to financial fair play obligations.
Elche seeks to begin with momentum in a historic campaign marking the club’s centenary. High hopes rest on the team as they chase a third straight berth in the top division and dream of climbing to higher levels in the Spanish football hierarchy.
Francisco lines up a Villamarín starting eleven that mirrors the setup from four months prior. While there are expectations of continuity, injuries shape decisions as Gonzalo Verdú remains sidelined through a recovery operation. Raul Guti continues to manage muscle discomfort, and Y Kike Pérez returns to Valladolid after his loan spell. The rest of the squad features Edgar Badía, Helibelton Palacios, Enzo Roco, Diego González, Mojica, Gumbau, Fidel, and Ezequiel Ponce, with Pere Milla, Josan, and Tete Morente among players with a strong chance to be named in the matchday squad.
Elche appears unlikely to deliver big news in the transfer market, and among the four signings so far, the striker has the best odds of starting. Roger Martí is pinpointed as a primary option, while Carlos Clerc, Pol Lirola, and Alex Collado vie for roles. The newcomer is expected to feature today, and Francisco has signaled that everyone is ready to contribute from the bench.
The Frangiverde coach tends to keep starting lineups under wraps ahead of matches, often choosing a surprise lineup. The key question remains whether the team will deploy four defenders or three central backs with two wing-backs. The early-season tendency leans toward the former.
The anticipated starting XI typically includes Edgar Badía in goal, a back four of Helibelton Palacios, Enzo Roco, Diego González, and Johan Mojica. In midfield, Omar Mascarell and Gerard Gumbau are expected to anchor the middle, with loyalty on the left and wings to supply width. Josan and Tete Morente contest the right flank, while Pere Milla and Roger Martí vie for the attacking roles. Should Catalan enter the lineup, he would operate from the left wing; if the Valencian is chosen, he would serve as the advanced midfielder. Ezekiel Ponce is set to lead the attack.
Today marks a festive day for Elche as the Franciverde celebrate the feast of Asunción de la Mare de Déu in Misteri, a night that could become unforgettable with a victory this Ni t e d e L’Albà and Elche.