Carlos Clerc emphasizes the importance of maintaining momentum after picking up four points over the last two fixtures, a pair of results against Majorca and Valladolid. The team prepares for a Sunday showdown at 16:15 against Real Sociedad at the Reale Arena in San Sebastián, a match Clerc sees as another crucial step in the battle to climb the table.
The left back is realistic about Elche’s odds of staying in the top division, acknowledging that the task is exceptionally tough even as he refuses to abandon hope. He says the squad will approach each upcoming game with a unitary purpose, playing to narrow the gap with their rivals and pursue salvation as a genuine target that would count as a significant achievement if they manage it.
Clerc also reflects on the likely fatigue the Real Sociedad squad might feel after their European campaign. In the Europa League, a match against Roma could influence Real Sociedad’s approach to the league contest. Clerc notes that if Real Sociedad advances in Europe, their morale will rise; if they are eliminated, they will likely focus solely on La Liga. He spoke to reporters at the Martínez Valero stadium on Thursday about how these potential shifts could shape Sunday’s game and how Elche plans to counter their opponent.
Even though Clerc is enjoying a good run of form, he cautions against looking too far ahead beyond Sunday’s clash. The team has earned four points from the last six but the priority remains the day by day work and the sensations it produces. He says the coaching staff emphasizes steady improvement, stronger competition, and relentless effort on the pitch. Focusing beyond the upcoming match would risk undermining their chances, so the emphasis stays squarely on preparation, performance, and maintaining momentum.
Elche remains on 13 points as Valencia rises as the new reference
The conversation then shifts to the broader picture as Clerc addresses Real Sociedad’s home form and the plan to go on the attack at Reale Arena. He acknowledges Real Sociedad’s quality this season but argues that a well-executed plan and courage can yield chances to score and secure a result. Elche’s approach is to be brave, neutralize Sociedad’s strengths, and remain vigilant to avoid giving away opportunities. If the visitors execute their plan properly, Clerc believes Elche can claim all three points.
Clerc returns to the thread of perseverance, reiterating the need to focus on the present rather than the distance to safety. He asserts that while the path to salvation is demanding, sustained effort day by day could yield positive results and bring the team closer to their goal. The focus remains on-performance and collective improvement rather than distant projections.
He also highlights the growing confidence within the squad, including the role of Machín and the competition from fellow defenders, notably Lautaro Blanco and Nico Fernández Mercau. Clerc explains that giving everything for the coach’s plans is essential, and while Blanco and Mercau push hard, their energy drives the team forward.
Clerc notes that European football experience has sharpened his understanding of the tactical demands under coach Pablo Machín, with prior time at Girona providing a useful benchmark. He stresses that the European game is distinct from South American football, yet the principles of preparing to meet a coach’s expectations remain universal. He praises the talents of Blanco and Mercau, acknowledging their potential and their ability to adapt to the coach’s style.
Lautaro Blanco on Elche’s aim to alter their fate and avoid relegation
In the final stretch of discussion, Clerc remains focused on the immediate challenge and the support of the club’s fans. He expresses gratitude for the unwavering backing from the supporters, insisting that the players feel accountable to those who attend the games and stand by the team in tough times. The objective is simple yet demanding: to maximize effort in every match and to nurture a strong bond between the squad and the fan base for the remainder of the season. The team’s recent home results may not have delivered wins, but Clerc is adamant that the correct approach is to keep grinding and to pursue unity between players and supporters as the season progresses.