A coach rarely speaks in public about a player his club is considering. Most of the time, questions must be asked and clues read between the lines. In Pablo Machin’s case, Aridane Hernandez and Elche’s interest in bringing the Osasuna defender into their squad did not need to be hidden. Soriano’s coach is outspoken and direct: he wants Aridane as part of his project.
When asked about Elche’s possible involvement with the Navarrese footballer, Machin kept his word. He stated that clubs seek his opinion and that the team then works to strengthen those positions. He acknowledged the difficulty of the market but said Aridane fits perfectly in the defensive axis and that he would be very pleased if the transfer happened. Still, agreements must be reached between clubs. He emphasized that Aridane has performed well all season and represents the type of player Elche needs.
Elche’s persistent challenge lies in countering opposing targets while addressing defensive lapses.
JA Galvanized
If Aridane’s arrival serves Elche’s interests, he must prove himself on the right track. The defender maintains a solid relationship with Sergio Mantecón, the club’s technical secretary, and his connections extend to Elche’s upcoming rival, Cádiz. Recently, the two watched the King’s Cup clash between Eldense and Athletic together. The defender also has family ties in Elda.
Aridane Hernandez, 33, is in his sixth season with Osasuna in the second division, a club he joined in 2017. He earned promotion to La Liga in his second Navarra campaign and delivered a standout 2019/20 season with 29 appearances and 3 goals. This season he has appeared in only four league matches.
Elche’s next targets are a midfielder and another defender.
JA Galvanized
Machín, after strengthening the right side of the defense with Carmona and Magallán, views Aridane as the ideal player for the central axis of the back three due to his physical presence and leadership. By January 31, Osasuna and Elche have time to reach an agreement, and in the case of Christian Bragarnik, fulfill the coach’s request. [Source: club statements and recent match reports]