Elche CF coach Jorge Almirón surprised the squad with a bold starting lineup to face Espanyol at the RCDE Stadium, opting for a defensive shape that signals a clear shift from the previous matches against Valencia and Real Madrid. After two games with four at the back, the Argentine manager changes tack and goes for three central defenders to blunt Espanyol’s direct game. The choice reflects a plan to crowd the middle, intercept long balls, and force the opposition to build from deeper positions, something Almirón stated ahead of the weekend clash would mark a different approach altogether. In this environment, Enzo Roco and Álex Collado earn spots in the XI, while Nico Fernández Mercau and Tete Morente start on the bench, ready to contribute if the match demands a change in tempo or a different attacking option. The rest of the lineup remains focused on balance, with players prepared to react to Espanyol’s pressing and potential transitions that could swing the game either way.
