Elche prepares a double-session day as the squad trains ahead of friendlies
Elche CF and its players have a packed schedule on Tuesday, as the squad splits time between two friendly matches that are set to be played within eight hours. At ten in the morning, the team will meet Intercity from Primera RRFÉ. Later, at six in the afternoon, the second match pits Elche against Atlético Torrellano, a representative from the Tercera RFEF.
Both exhibitions are staged behind closed doors at the Martínez Valero stadium, keeping the sessions focused and off-limits to spectators.
The team’s new manager, under constant observation, continues in his role with a clear plan: oversee the players, run tests where needed, and evaluate each footballer’s readiness during the training sessions.
Yesterday’s practice saw key players Diego González, Enzo Roco, and Tete Morente participate extensively with the main group. Despite limited minutes in earlier friendlies, including games against West Bromwich Albion, Leeds United, and Genk, they are gradually integrating into team drills and match scenarios. The objective is to have them available for a few minutes of action when the moment arises, with recovery progress monitored closely by the medical team and guided by the players’ sensations and medical assessments.
Elche’s evolving training dynamic is highlighted by the improving form of Roco and Diego González, whose participation has increased as the sessions unfold. The atmosphere around the squad remains productive, with the coaching staff satisfied with the pace and intensity of practice.
Among those currently unavailable for the friendlies are John Chetauya, sidelined for more than two months due to injury, and Pol Lirola, who is also unavailable. The Catalan right-back trained with the wings along with the squad, while the youth team took part in exercises with goalkeeping and field work yesterday. Johnny Alamo, meanwhile, remains in the final stages of rehabilitation following a serious knee injury.
Everyone recognizes that the plan is to arrange two practice teams and play two 45-minute halves, first against Intercity in the morning and then against Torrellano in the afternoon. The exact lineup will hinge on how players respond to the workload, with the squad relying on a mix of regulars and a few youngsters from the reserve side to fill gaps as needed.
The coach will weigh factors such as squad depth, fatigue levels, and tactical fit before finalizing the selections for each friendly. The aim remains to foster competition within the group, test different formations, and maintain a high tempo to ensure readiness for the upcoming phase of the season.