For Elche CF to keep growing, the plan calls for a clear jump in quality and a broader competition across all areas. This is the central message from the coaching staff, who emphasize a unified strategy under the club’s leadership. The ownership and management team are aligned on strengthening the squad and improving processes, with strong emphasis on a stable technical framework and clear development paths for players and staff alike. This approach is meant to push the club toward higher competitive standards in the near term, benefiting the entire organization and its supporters. [Cited: Club statements and internal planning documents]
One area that has drawn less attention but remains crucial is the goalkeeping position. Edgar Badia has proven himself as a capable First Division option, showing reliability and composure between the posts. Yet the coaching staff, alongside the franciverde leadership, has signaled a preference for a goalkeeper who can offer absolute guarantees in competition for every starting role, ensuring there is true depth and healthy pressure across the squad. The aim is not merely to fill a spot but to introduce a goalkeeper who can push the entire defense to higher performance levels. [Cited: Team strategy notes]
Badia emerged as the first-choice option when Francisco arrived, asserting himself as the starter. The Catalan player demonstrated confidence and readiness, while the club’s decision-makers assessed how best to balance continuity with necessary upgrades. The season’s dynamics unfolded with discussions surrounding transfers that would align with the coach’s broader vision, including the prospect of a goalkeeper who can bring steady leadership to the back line. The aim was to ensure the squad’s stability while keeping doors open for strategic moves that could pay off as the campaign progresses. [Cited: Transfer policy communications]
Edgar Badia showed patience and waited for opportunities, delivering performances that many observers described as decisive in tight matches. His consistency earned renewed trust, and he ended up featuring in a significant portion of the season’s games, contributing to Elche’s campaign. This reliability supported the club’s decision to consider extending the relationship with the franciverde setup, signaling satisfaction with the goalkeeper’s adaptation and impact. Badia’s bond with the fans grew, highlighting his role as a crowd favorite and a pillar of the team during important moments. [Cited: Match reports]
Kiko Casilla’s situation evolved with a loan arrangement taking him to an English club. Axel Werner served as a rotation option during parts of the season, including December and January, and he had opportunities to participate in high-profile qualifying matches. The Argentine stopper was on loan to Arsenal de Sarandí for the winter window and still has a contract for another year. These movements illustrate the club’s testing of different profiles to broaden the pool of options for the first team. [Cited: Loan announcements]
At present, Edgar Badia is the sole goalkeeper consistently starting preseason plans, with Werner expected to join later after fulfilling obligations with the Argentine national team. This setup reflects the club’s preference for evaluating options in a structured manner while recognizing the value of continuity at the top of the defense. The coaching staff remains focused on ensuring a robust plan for the goalkeeping department, balancing present needs with potential future enhancements. [Cited: Preseason notes]
Market considerations and scouting are actively underway. Francisco, Bragarnik, and Mantecón are the trio charged with exploring alternatives in the market and deciding on viable fits. The emphasis is on players who understand LaLiga’s demands and can integrate quickly into the franciverde system, with a willingness to explore foreign options if a compelling opportunity arises. [Cited: Market scouting briefings]
Among the candidates under discussion, several names stand out as potential fits. Joel Robles is nearing the end of his contract with Betis and could become a free agent, an option that excites clubs looking for experienced leadership in goal. He is 31 and has drawn attention from Rayo Vallecano as well, offering a veteran presence that could stabilize the dressing room. [Cited: Player availability reports]
Other realistic possibilities include Aitor Fernández, who appeared in 13 league games and two cup matches this season. Although 31 years old and under contract to 2024, there is a sense that Real Granota might be prepared to move him on if the right opportunity presents itself. Dani Cárdenas has emerged as a prominent target from Premier League interest, signaling the club’s intent to pursue top-tier experience. Fernando Pacheco, a 30-year-old veteran who has been a trusted starter for several campaigns with Alavés, is another name on the radar. [Cited: Transfer rumors and official updates]
Additional options include two younger talents who could be groomed for bigger responsibilities: Álvaro Fernández, 24, who could return from his stint with Huesca and a Brentford loan, and Adrian Lunin, 23, with Real Madrid showing interest in a potential loan. These paths reflect a balanced approach, weighing immediate impact against long-term development. [Cited: Youth development and loan strategies]