Ezequiel Ponce signed the renewal. Elche CF announced yesterday afternoon that it has exercised the option to buy the Argentine striker. Moscow Spartak had initially sparked talk of a potential sale, but the deal moved forward under new terms.
At first, optimism surrounded the green club as the clause deadline approached on May 31, with the purchase price stated at five million euros. The club weighed whether the fee could be reduced and considered the possibility of the player being released under fresh FIFA regulations. The conflict between Russia and Ukraine allowed players from those nations to terminate contracts and freely join other teams, shaping the negotiations.
Christian Bragarnik, both player and owner of Elche, acted decisively. All parties made financial efforts, and the final agreement emerged with a lower figure and more favorable payment terms than originally anticipated.
The manager of the Franjiverde club pressed for the continuation of the Argentine striker, recognizing his potential to stabilize the attack. He believes the player can contribute in the high-press system and, following a knee injury and a solid pre-season, could elevate his performance for the upcoming campaign.
Ezequiel Ponce, now 25, is at an age where his peak form can be realized. He has experience in European and Spanish football and joined Elche on 31 January, the final day of the winter transfer window. His debut, delayed by a knee injury, came on February 18, and his first goal for Elche secured the win against Rayo Vallecano, marking his only goal for the club so far.
Bragarnik noted that Ponce remains an appealing asset for Elche and could still improve. The club’s largest shareholder never lost hope of reaching an agreement with Spartak Moscow for a price below the initial figure, aiming for a practical structure. He commented that a buy option exists, but it could be adjusted through negotiation and flexible terms, in a public statement on May 20.
Ultimately Bragarnik finalized a deal with Spartak Moscow, binding Ponce to Elche for the next four seasons. The club announced that the buy option was exercised and that the four-season extension was secured, praising Ponce for continuing to represent the green colors during a landmark year in the club’s centenary history.
In an interview given to a national newspaper at the end of April, Ponce expressed his happiness about remaining with Elche. He stated his joy at playing and his desire to contribute more in the upcoming season, anticipating a pre-season that will help him showcase his best attributes.
The South American forward also noted that Elche feels close to his roots, with his family sharing in the happiness of the decision.
The outlook for the next season is taking shape with Ponce’s renewal and Lucas Boyé under contract as principal attackers. Francisco already has two backup options for the frontline.
Speculation remains about Pere Milla’s future and whether the Catalan striker will remain. If Milla departs, the club would likely pursue two additional forwards to fill the gap left by Guido Carrillo’s exit.
The question of Lucas Boyé’s future lingers as well. In a best-case scenario, the team would feature an Argentine number nine alongside Ponce, creating a potent attacking reference for the campaign. There was limited field time for the two players during the previous season, and injuries disrupted early formation, with Boyé also sidelined at times as Ponce recovered from his knee issue.
Elche will defend its rights with Pere Milla, while exploring the market to bring in two other attackers who can deliver a quality impact for the team in the next season. What is clear is that the squad must be fully committed. Ponce has shown determination to keep playing, and the coach believes he can maximize the player’s contribution in the coming year.
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