Elche’s Franjiverde supporters react to the appointment of Jorge Almirón
Fans voice a laid back, social-media style critique while emphasizing a clear stance: for now, he is the coach and the club needs united support. The Federation, which brings together leaders from the Franjiverdes clubs and their majority, expressed disappointment with the choice of Jorge Almirón as the new coach for Elche CF.
A recurring question emerges from the past in conversations among supporters: why remove Francisco without a ready replacement? Carlos San José, president of Penya Altabix, notes that decisions sometimes lack foresight. He observes that Sevilla had already replaced its coach after Lopetegui; Almirón resigned a year and a half earlier because he did not feel his performance met expectations. What has changed since then, if anything? A representative from Peña Guardamar, Pedro Zaragoza, says the situation angered him due to transfers and the coaching change. He would have preferred Francisco over Almirón by a wide margin. The sentiment mirrors a belief that ownership shows indifference toward clubs and fans, a stance some supporters feel may push the team toward a lower division. Francisco Toledo, treasurer of Rabuts Novelda, reminds everyone that Almirón comes from Argentine championships with Lanús but did not secure success at Elche. He returns to Lanús and is dismissed there as well. What should be expected now? Some hope that this move serves the club’s best interests and quiets the critics at home.
Nevertheless, a wave of solidarity runs through Elche supporters. Jorge Ortega, president of Peña Furia Franjiverde, describes the coaching decision as surprising and not fully reassuring. He emphasizes that Almirón must learn the club’s house and win over about half of the current squad. In earlier statements, Almirón claimed several players were unavailable in the winter market; now the squad that was assembled is among the strongest in recent times. He asserts that Almirón is their coach and that the fan base should stand with him.
Tomás Domenes, president of Franja Verde, questions whether Almirón fits Elche’s needs. He respects the process but would have preferred Gallego and Nino. If Bragarnik offers a role, Domenes suggests Almirón could focus on training a local squad, possibly El Ilicitano, to prove his approach before a broader challenge. He hopes the decision proves right, even as he contends that the road back to the first division requires adjustments and clarity.
Mario Payá, vice-president of the Peñas del Elche Federation, offers a cautious verdict: the choice may not be ideal, yet there is no alternative but to place trust in the plan. The key goal is to support the team fully and monitor the results under the new coach, keeping in mind that the club’s fate could hinge on these outcomes.
Paco Pérez Pereda of Peña Franjiverde Vega Baja stresses that the solution is not guaranteed by the hire alone. He urges patience and expects results to reflect the club’s best interests and its ability to stay afloat. He notes that many fans anticipated a national coach with proven experience in challenging situations, and the arrival of Almirón was met with skepticism due to his recent track record in Spain. Still, the pledge is to support him wholeheartedly for everyone’s sake.
Rosana Jaén of Els Gafarrons bases her view on statistical data, suggesting that Almirón’s signature may not optimally align with the present needs. Valero Payá, president of Peña Franjiverde Petrer, captures a harsher timeline: late decisions, poor second halves, and a reluctance from potential successors to take on this difficult task. These reflections echo a common concern about timing and the ability to stabilize the club quickly.
David Aranda, president of the Fan Clubs Federation, acknowledges that the ultimate verdict rests with time and results. He concedes that the name did not thrill many, and it took nearly two days to secure the appointment. He refrains from dwelling on national football leadership in the Americas, focusing instead on the immediate desire to savor a strong first league round. On the upcoming Saturday, Elche will face Valencia, and unity among players and fans is viewed as essential to moving forward with pride and professionalism.
In summary, the fan base, while disappointed in parts, remains hopeful that Almirón can guide the team to stability. The sense of togetherness is highlighted as the primary path to overcoming current uncertainties. Supporters encourage the players to show commitment and professionalism, trusting that the coach will earn the backing of the club and its supporters through tangible results.