Aim and Roster Strategy for Elche CF’s Upcoming Season
Coach Francis Rodriguez at Elche CF chose to reward players who rarely see minutes by giving them opportunities in last Sunday’s game against Celtic at Balaidos. The decision allowed several squad members to demonstrate their viability for the project as the club plans for the next season. The focus, however, remained largely on players within the goalkeeper group and the youth ranks who got a chance to shine in a practical setting.
Several regulars and fringe players faced a crossroads. Notable names who faced an uncertain future included Paul Piatti, Ivan Marcone, and Guido Carillo, who did not stay with the club beyond the current stint. Others like Lucas Olaza and Diego González left the club under contract terms that left some doubts about their future roles. Kike Pérez showed enough in the late campaign to merit consideration, but Valladolid’s reported four-million-euro acquisition price complicates his continuity. These developments reflect a broader assessment of the squad’s balance and the financial realities facing the club as it eyes stability in higher competition.
AIM
Edgar Badía and at least one other goalkeeper
Elche’s strategy includes activating an automatic contract-extension option with Edgar Badía so he can remain in the First Division for another season. The goal is to extend his contract for multiple years, ensuring continuity between the sticks while the team shapes its defensive backbone for the near term.
Kiko Casilla is on loan from Leeds United and is expected to return to England. Bragarnik holds an asset in Axel Werner, a young goalkeeper previously on loan to Arsenal de Sarandí in Argentina. It is anticipated that a new keeping option will compete with Badía in the upcoming campaign, with a plan to keep three goalkeepers if Francisco desires that depth. Werner could stay if the situation aligns with the coach’s vision.
Kiko Casilla’s contract with Leeds will expire, and Francisco has praised his professionalism and price point. If the coach approves, Casilla’s continuity could be considered, provided the ownership approves the arrangement.
TO DEFEND
Reinforcements are planned to complete all lines of the squad.
Defensive upgrades are anticipated, with Barragán’s contract ending and not being renewed. Helibelton Palacios may continue on a loan basis until 2023, while a new starter at right-back is likely to be identified. In central defense, Gonzalo Verdú, Enzo Roco, and Peter Bigas are under contract, with Diego González finishing his spell and having been a target of initial discussions to extend his stay, though that option has weakened. The club is evaluating a defender capable of elevating the level of the unit, potentially integrating youth product Jonh into more regular rotation times.
On the left flank, the future is less certain. Mojika and Olaza have had limited impact, with Olaza notably underperforming since January. A buy option above two million euros represents a significant financial commitment that may deter the largest shareholder. If Mojica remains, the plan is to give the youth team a chance. If not, a loan from Unionistas de Salamanca or other moves may be pursued, and a guaranteed left-back could be signed if the transfer fee of around 5.5 million euros is met.
MIDDLE FIELD
Two midfielders and two wide players
Midfield moves are also on the horizon. Omar Mascarell remains a priority, with Gerard Gumbau and Raul Guti expected to continue as key components. Options to move on from Marcone, Shepherd, or Kike Pérez are being explored. Marcone, despite two seasons with Elche, is seen as surplus to requirements and is expected to pursue opportunities in Argentine football, potentially leaving in January though he remains under contract for another year. Pastore’s physical profile is a concern for the Spanish league’s demands, and Kike Pérez’s high asking price complicates retention. The plan is to sign a defensive midfielder and a playmaking presence if Mascarell stays, with Bragarnik previously showing interest in Seoane from Huesca, a deal that could come free of charge should Huesca’s circumstances permit.
Group-wise, loyalty figures Tete Morente and Josan are under contract, with expectations of adding two wingers, one on each flank. Piatti’s departure leaves a gap that needs to be filled with suitable depth and youth integration.
LEAD
Movements hinge on Pere Milla and Boyé
Everything will depend on their futures. Lucas Boyé remains a question mark, while Guido Carillo is unlikely to continue unless a surprise arrangement emerges. Carillo’s high salary and inconsistent production have not justified his role. With Pere Milla, talks are ongoing about renewal, though Boyé and Milla must remain aligned to the club’s strategy. If Spartak Moscow triggers a release clause or a lucrative opportunity appears, Ezekiel Ponce could be recruited to provide a true number nine option capable of contributing decisively to goals.
These strategic decisions underscore Elche’s careful balance of resource allocation, youth development, and competitive readiness as the club navigates a transitional period toward building a more resilient squad for the seasons ahead. [Source attribution: Club communications and match reports]