Pablo Machín demonstrated early signs at the Festa d’Elx Trophy for Elche. The team showed potential, especially in the first half. Yet it became clear that strengthening is needed, and the coach himself acknowledged it. The gap is urgent, given how the new manager styles the defense. Three players are already covering central defense, making a quick fix essential. The central back position has a clear demand, and Elche has signaled that it is seeking a solution at once.
Machín: “We must sign as soon as possible to cover the two casualties (Fede and Pastore)”
VL Deltel
“Fix the deficiencies”
In this context the Soriano era coach stated, “There is a clear need to address the shortcomings with haste.” He added, “two players left injured, so there are two open slots, and it would be wise to move ahead of competitors in the market.” The plan is simple: act quickly to secure incoming players and integrate them as soon as possible. The urgency is real, and the timetable is tight, says Machín.
While names aren’t officially revealed, the two injuries are Javier Pastore and Fede Fernández. The latter is a central defender. Enzo Roco has also faced issues with an Achilles problem, and Martínez Valero has seen missteps punished by whistles in recent matches. Diego González has dealt with muscle problems and missed training during the week.
Fede Fernández and Pastore to leave Elche
JA Galvanized
against Leeds United
In the Leeds match, Elche lined up with Helibelton Palacios as a right-sided central defender alongside Pedro Bigas and John Cheauya. An early injury to the young defender forced Gonzalo Verdú to step in around the 12th minute. Verdú was later replaced by Gerard Gumbau in the second half, with support from Manu Cocca and Javi Pamies in midfield and defense.
Gumbau from the center?
The Catalan midfielder performed well, though the coach admitted that shifting Gumbau to that central role altered the balance. He explained that this move affected other areas and that the circumstances dictated the choice. The absence of a true center back pairing also left gaps, and Domingos Quina found himself out of position when the team tried to reset after the second goal. The result showed a vulnerability in the middle during difficult moments.
Machín was explicit about the issue: the shortcomings could not be hidden.Two academy defenders had to play today. More players are needed. The owner remains focused on staying in the Premier League and will make every possible effort to reinforce the squad.
beat with another face
Despite a 1-2 loss to Leeds United, the team presented a different attitude and showed a stronger fight. The coach remarked that the effort over 90 minutes was clear and appreciated. He noted a visible shift in the approach and mindset, driven by a sense of urgency and competitiveness.
According to the coach, the first half showed momentum, and the second half kept that energy. The team pressed with determination, fought for individual duels, and created chances without waiting to react. The intent was to play forward, not to retreat or speculate.
Machín summarized: the first half leaned toward more flamboyance, but the main goal was the result. In the second half, circumstances demanded resilience, and the squad rose to the challenge. The plan remains consistent: players should leave everything on the pitch, and the fans will recognize that commitment.
The players gave their all. Each man left nothing behind. They contested duels with vigor against a physically strong Premier League side, and the supporters understood and valued that effort as well.