Eldense’s return to the Segunda Division hinges on smart planning, trust, and standout contributions
Deportivo Eldense marked a confident return to Spain’s second tier, underscoring careful preparation and a shared playstyle that stretches across the squad. The team relies on a daily routine that builds consistency, turning training-ground habits into reliable performances on match day. A standout figure this season is the 33-year-old left back Marc Mateu. He arrived from Huesca last summer and has become the natural option for the manager in the starting XI. The Valencian defender has logged heavy minutes and was even a winter rumor linked with Espanyol, signaling his value to the group.
How were Eldense’s early months assessed?
The club and the supporters earned praise even before new arrivals settled in, with Timor already integrating with the squad months ahead of the campaign. The path forward felt clear, and the expectations appeared well balanced and reachable.
Was peak fitness anticipated at this stage?
There were no rigid forecasts about fitness levels. The aim was to watch how the team progresses in matches and what is achieved in real time, letting results and form guide the plan.
Beating Huesca would carry weight at the season’s end
The direct head-to-head matters. Securing good performances at home is crucial to deny opponents a comfortable visit, so Eldense must be strong on their own turf and make the stadium a difficult place for visitors to play.
What memories exist of Aragon?
While times have changed, Eldense remains a serious club. The interviewer has a wide circle of friends there and there are moments of nostalgia, tempered by the knowledge that the club’s focus is forward.
When the goal was set to return to the First Division
The objective was clear, but it did not come to fruition. Management changes and large investments did not translate into rapid results, providing a learning experience that the squad continues to value as part of their growth.
There was talk of elite moves in Spanish football
It was an exciting prospect, but the opportunity did not materialize. It did not happen at that time, and the club stayed committed to steady progression.
Mateu: Eldense’s most valuable player
What if a move to Espanyol had occurred?
There could have been a chance to push for promotion in that market, but the deal did not come to pass in the end.
Why stay with Eldense?
Interest from a bigger club is flattering at any age. Still, no agreement materialized, and Mateu chose Eldense because he loves the place and thrives on the daily competition.
If interest returns in the summer, what then?
Expect more conversations. Both sides would need to align goals, share perspectives, and reopen negotiations as needed.
Mateu remains with Eldense after Espanyol negotiations stall
Does Mateu aim higher with the club?
The competition is fierce and a relaxed stance can prove costly. The focus stays on the next game and finishing with a solid points tally, with goals continuing to be a priority.
How is life at Eldense perceived?
It feels comfortable and rewarding—playing the football he loves, testing himself in every stadium, and finding frequent chances to score makes daily life satisfying.
How would the team be rated so far?
Seven is the mark, a playful nod to a match against Huesca where Mateu opened the scoring in a 2-0 win.
“KEY PARTY”
Eldense and Huesca enter a relegation battle
The clash is set for the Nou Pepico Amat stadium on Saturday at 16:15, a match that could decide the relegation outcome. Deportivo arrives after a 3-2 home win over Espanyol and a seven-match unbeaten run. In that fixture, Estévez must manage injuries to Darío Dumic, Youness Lachhab, and Florin Andone, who are nearing the end of their recovery timelines.
[Citation: Player interview and club notes summarized for context]