Francisco spoke yesterday about a squad that has moved beyond the heavy setback from the season opener against Betis, a 3-0 defeat that stung across the opening days. He noted a solid week of training and expressed belief that the team is ready to seize victory in the upcoming home clash with Almeria at the Martínez Valero. The night game under the lights will mark a significant moment for the club, as it seeks a strong performance for the home fans in Canada and the United States alike through global broadcast and fan engagement.
The manager stressed that the squad is in good shape. The Betis result did not reflect the quality on show. Start times were abrupt and early errors shaped the scoreline, yet the group looked forward, analyzed what went wrong, and focused on the work ahead. New arrivals have brought quality and competitive fire, while players sidelined earlier are returning to action. The team is fully prepared to face Almeria and push for three points.
One key theme this week has been morale. Enzo Roco endured a tough display at Benito Villamarín and faced critique for mistakes that do not belong in top-level football. The coach spoke with him at halftime of the Betis match, emphasizing shared responsibility and resilience. Roco brings international experience from Chile and adds substantial value to the squad. Leadership and strong preseason form underline his potential. The message was clear: improvement is a collective duty, regardless of individual status.
The importance of the Almeria match is reflected in the coach’s schedule and mindset. Every league game is treated with urgency, especially early in La Liga when momentum can shape a season. Almeria will aim to contend for safety and respect, and they showed quality again last season with solid second-division performances followed by a competitive top-flight entry. The Martínez Valero atmosphere adds significance to this early fixture, and the team is determined to start with a positive result for their supporters at home.
The coach remains confident that the team will be tested in the opening weeks and that the league will demand disciplined, consistent effort. The previous defeat is acknowledged as a lesson, not a detour. The focus is on recapturing the spirit of last season, playing with heart in every game, and carrying that winning mentality into every challenge.
The Elche project centers on atmosphere and connection with supporters. Martínez Valero will host a vibrant night, with thousands of fans expected in the stands. The club has improved the pitch and surroundings, and the sense of home support drives the squad toward victory. The aim is to honor the fans with a performance that defines Elche in front of their home crowd.
The coach is urging a bold approach as the team readies for the match. Lineup decisions will be based on performance and tactics rather than rigidity. Whether the defense features three or four players, the emphasis remains on collective effort. The squad will align with the aim of a hard, but winnable, battle and a strong display of character on the field. The message is simple: forget the Betis result and attack Almeria with focus and determination.
Pol Lirola, Alex Collado, and Domingos Quina are ready for action, each bringing a fresh dynamic. Alex joins after a long pre-season with Barcelona, Pol has experience from Marseille, and Domingos contributed in pre-season with a top-tier club. Their integration has been smooth, and they are prepared to contribute from the start. The club values the positive impact of these new faces on the squad’s balance and depth.
Transfers and potential departures remain a talking point. The coach has signaled openness to strengthening if opportunities arise that genuinely improve the defensive balance. The aim is to retain a competitive edge while keeping the core group intact. The door stays open for moves that could elevate the squad while recognizing the value of the current roster. These discussions reflect a pragmatic approach to building a team capable of sustaining progress through the season.
The club has also commented on the possibility of new defensive options should a suitable chance appear. Management continues to monitor market activity and evaluate players who could bolster the backline. The overall sentiment is readiness and ambition, with a clear plan to respond to evolving circumstances on the transfer front.
Regarding rumors about players on the market, sources close to the club note that signings are possible if they bring tangible improvement. Any forthcoming decisions will prioritize strengthening the squad and maintaining balance across positions. The focus remains on competitive intent and delivering a performance that resonates with supporters and stakeholders alike.
In this context, the La Liga schedule remains intense and unforgiving. The team will approach Almeria with confidence, aiming to translate strong preparatory work into tangible results on match night. The overarching objective is clear: display grit, execute the game plan with discipline, and secure three points for the fans at Martínez Valero.