Elche’s head coach, Sebastián Beccacece, addressed the club’s current situation regarding arrivals and departures during this morning’s press conference. He emphasized that, at present, the scenarios mirror those from a week earlier, with three players remaining at the center of the talks and without a clear path for their futures. The trio identified is Lautaro Blanco, Raúl Guti, and Sergio León. There have been no new signings, and any departure would be complex unless reinforcements arrive first. This stance was echoed by sporting director Sergio Mantecón.
Tense calm at Elche over futures of Lautaro, Raúl Guti and Sergio León
Beccacece projected a steady hand from the team, acknowledging he expects more faces to join, while also recognizing the challenges of the winter transfer window. When asked about his optimism for fresh players to strengthen the squad, the coach said: “I am hopeful, I have faith and enthusiasm. If things don’t go as hoped later, I will assume responsibility for any disappointment. But I trust Bragarnik and I work well with Mantecón. Sometimes, desire alone isn’t enough.”
Wants
Beccacece revealed that the coaching staff has requested five or six reinforcements. If those reinforcements do not arrive, the team will continue to compete with the squad it currently has. He spoke positively about daily progress and the players available. He outlined needing a centre-back, two wingers, and a midfielder as priorities.
The winter market remains open until late January, yet days are ticking by, with Edgar Badía potentially departing and the arrivals of goalkeeper Matías Dituro and forward Manu Nieto still unconfirmed. The recent victory in Tenerife pleased supporters, and Sunday’s clash with Real Valladolid could prove pivotal for the club beyond the standings alone.
Elche-Valladolid, a remarkable tie for second place
The club is navigating a delicate balance between squad depth and competitive ambitions, aware that each match can influence its long-term trajectory. The focus remains on reinforcing the squad where possible, while maintaining confidence in those already wearing the Elche shirt. The team’s leadership stressed that strategic signings, if they occur, would aim to strengthen the spine and width of the lineup, rather than merely filling gaps.
Possible exits
Beccacece was less definitive than in prior weeks when he openly stated that certain players had not been called up to reserve their future discussions with the club. This time, he described Raúl Guti and Lautaro Blanco as highly capable talents who remain under consideration as potential options for Valladolid. For Sergio León, the assessment was nuanced: the Argentinian forward showed notable improvement this week, which encourages the coaching staff. The decision on whether to bring in four or five forwards will not be the sole factor in deciding his future status. Beccacece noted conversations with the player about strengthening the center-back position this transfer window and reminded everyone that even if some targets fail to arrive, the plan and expectations remain clear. He emphasized the importance of continued personal and team growth and the obligation to secure a place on the official list when appropriate. If the squad does not reach a 15-man quota, the plan would adjust to 16 or 17 players, ensuring competitive balance.
Beccacece highlighted that none of these discussions should be mistaken for a lack of ambition. The coach remains open to strategic changes, with the understanding that transfers are ultimately driven by the broader plan for the season and the club’s finances.
Sergio León: “I don’t know if I see myself inside or outside”
The coach summarized the general mood: there is a possibility that all players could be called, and the final decision will depend on the choices the coaching staff makes. This reflects a club aiming to maintain flexibility while pursuing the best path for the squad’s cohesion and competitive edge. [Citation: Elche CF press conference notes]