Elche CF update from Joaquin Buitrago after key departures
In a flower presentation to the city’s patron saint, Joaquin Buitrago outlined the club’s state following the exits of Lucas Boyé, Pere Milla, and Ezequiel Ponce. He emphasized that even substantial transfer revenue does not automatically secure success if it is all spent on new players.
How does the squad look at this early stage of the season?
Through the first four matchdays, there has been a clear show of resolve and effort. The results have yet to echo the club’s historic identity, but the direction mirrors that identity and builds on the momentum seen last weekend in Santander. If the team sustains this path, the rewards are a matter of time. The season carries high expectations: the squad is growing, gaining strength as it progresses. The newest signings require time to settle, arriving later due to market conditions. There is full trust in the coach and the staff to prepare them quickly.
Is Elche still a strong promotion candidate after the squad changes?
Efforts focused on assembling a highly competitive second‑division roster. Among the additions, Sergio León brings hunger and ambition. Borja Garcés and Sergio Carreira filled gaps left by those who left. While more reinforcements could come, the versatility across positions gives the team flexibility to cover possible departures, injuries, and other unforeseen events.
Two roster spots remain open. Could there be room for an unsigned free agent?
The sports commission continues to assess needs and what is realistically affordable. The aim is prudent investment, avoiding overpayment for a player. With two open slots, there is also the option to promote academy players, as the coach has done before, to provide minutes and illustrate potential, since several academy talents show real quality.
Among fans, there are pockets of disappointment, particularly those who wanted to retain most of last season’s squad. With only 11 players remaining and several key departures, does this raise concerns about prospects?
Concerns exist, yet the plan has always been to maintain balance. Some players have personal ambitions that require terms beyond what the club can offer. The goal is to forge a cohesive, united group following a common path. In practice, a homogeneous, competitive squad has been built, ready to face a demanding campaign with resilience.
Bragarnik, what comes next?
Elche’s financial dynamics differ from many others; the club has benefited from transfer inflows but has not always translated funds into immediate investments. How is it possible to reconcile large inflows with measured spending?
The experience shows success does not hinge on a large payroll or inflated numbers. Even in higher‑revenue leagues, clubs can falter with bloated squads. The focus is careful budgeting and salary discipline, ensuring long‑term sustainability. Last year, for instance, a club with heavy expenditure in the second division still faced relegation. The emphasis remains on asset evaluation, not merely chasing big names. Revenue generation matters, but spending without a strategic return does not guarantee performance.
What matters most is the salary cap and overall squad balance. The question is what the current group can achieve together, rather than chasing short‑term gains. The approach is pragmatic: strengthen where needed, promote internal talent, and maintain financial health while pursuing competitive performance.