Preseason results aren’t a precise thermometer for a team’s future when the real games begin. Answers will come only after a handful of La Liga fixtures. Still, this training phase does reveal the level of energy Elche can harness during the centennial season. For the moment, one clear winner stands out: the supporters.
He’s already logged five weeks of training and five friendlies, and right now the coach is weighing performance and roster options. The club’s owner, Christian Bragnik, maintains his steady demeanor as he signs papers meant to push the team forward. The Argentine investor has shown that since arriving at the franciverde project, he can operate in a market crowded with opportunists who leap at any chance to push their own interests. With only two weeks to go until kickoff, nerves run high both inside and outside the locker room.
ADVANTAGE
A solid core from last season
Elche prioritizes protecting the foundation from the previous campaign, which secured a comfortable stay in the top flight. The club refreshed the squad with Ezekiel Ponce and renewed deals for Omar Mascarell, Peter Milla, and even Shepherd, satisfying the fans during the early summer.
Continuity with Lucas Boyé and the continued presence of Johan Mojica keep key elements intact. The backbone of the side is clear, and Francisco remains a steady captain at the helm. Yet this promising initial snapshot lacks details that would sustain a campaign likely to be tough and demanding.
STRENGTHENING?
The expected arrivals of Carlos Clerc and Dani Gómez
Thus far, the notable additions are Carlos Clerc and potentially Dani Gómez, though the latter’s status hasn’t been confirmed. Both players have shown Premier League pedigree but have yet to prove themselves at the required level. They aren’t headlines from day one, and time will tell if they earn their stripes. If Mojica remains in green, Clerc could take over on the left. Dani Gómez is viewed as a forward option or support to the starting duo Ponce and Pere Milla, with Lucas Boyé sidelined by injury as a potential starter alternative. La Liga begins on August 15 at Benito Villamarín against Betis.
DEFEND
Defensive core under review
The defense remains in the same configuration as last year, with Enzo Roco, Pedro Bigas, Diego González, and Gonzalo Verdu anchoring the back line, while young talent Jhon Chetauya adds depth but still shows growing pains. The unit has raised questions rather than ironed them out. They found firmer footing versus higher-tier opposition, but struggled against teams from lower leagues by slipping to defeat. Against Getafe, a disciplined performance yielded a clean sheet, while stumbles against Villarreal B and Cartagena offered reminders that consistency is still a work in progress. The team’s results against promotion contenders like Leganés hint at progress as the season approaches.
WOUNDED
Key players sidelined or limited
The optimism surrounding the squad is tempered by injuries. Lucas Boyé faces an extended spell in rehabilitation, likely missing the opening games. Pastore did not complete pre-season preparations, and Ponce featured only briefly in Cartagena. Captain Gonzalo Verdú is still finding his best form. Keeping these four players healthy will be crucial for the early part of La Liga.
FOLLOWERS
More than 20,000 fans and counting
The fan base is unwavering. With La Liga set to start in just two weeks and the home opener at Martínez Valero three weeks away, the crowd exceeds 20,000 season-ticket holders and continues to grow. The club’s leadership faces the task of delivering real reinforcements that match the level of enthusiasm in the franciverde community and calm any early-season doubts. Ownership remains cautious, but the pressure cooker is on as the countdown continues.