Real Zaragoza’s coach Fran Escribá, a former Elche player, described the upcoming Saturday clash as one where the opposition would push hard for promotion despite a rocky start. He told reporters, via the Efe news agency, that after a difficult start Elche would still secure many points and compete for a top six finish. He added that Elche should be viewed as one of the contenders because of their budget and squad depth.
Escribá explained that only three teams are truly bound to promote while also facing relegation in the same season. He noted that Elche are seen as a team on the rise, and he reminded listeners that relegated clubs can also begin the campaign poorly, as seen with Espanyol, Valladolid, and Elche in other seasons.
“All matches are important”
When asked if the Elche match would shape Zaragoza’s future, Escribá said no. He stated that every game matters and that points from all fixtures help toward the season goals, but winning one game would not automatically elevate them to the top or guaranteeing failure if they lose.
He added that Real Zaragoza has full confidence in remaining among the leading clubs and acknowledged that there will be bumps along the way. This is a long league with fluctuating results; a single match will not determine the overall trajectory. He reiterated this stance about the Elche game.
He commented on the most recent game against Real Oviedo, which ended in a draw. He called it a very complete match in which his team simply lacked clinical finishing, and he noted that Oviedo did not target Zaragoza as aggressively as some other opponents have.
Escribá analyzed that Zaragoza had some positives but also faced a drawback in that opponents have started to press higher and control more space after recognizing Zaragoza’s style. The team needs to adapt while maintaining its approach.
The rhythm of Elche
Escribá believes the Elche match will feel different from recent games. He described Elche as a very strong team with a high tempo at home and suggested the upcoming encounter should not resemble the most recent opponents Zaragoza faced.
Emphasizing Zaragoza’s belief that they have earned more points than the early results might indicate, the Valencian coach expects Elche to demand an intense game and genuine competition. He added that Elche performs well at home, maintains a strong rhythm, and will require Zaragoza to be at their best.
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Personally special
Escribá admitted that the Elche match holds personal significance because he spent five seasons coaching the club. He reflected on two separate periods there and said those years were among the best of his professional life.
He noted a strong connection with the city and many friends, adding that he visits Elche regularly for personal reasons beyond football. He stressed that his focus remained on Zaragoza but cannot ignore the emotional ties to Elche.
Regarding the recent controversial sanction for Víctor Mollejo, who received a ban for an act after celebrating a goal during a game against Cartagena, Escribá said the punishment surprised the team. He stated that Mollejo had accumulated five yellow cards and that the club had appealed. He personally did not believe the act warranted punishment, considering it an expression of joy that was not directed at anyone, though it could be interpreted as crude. The club’s appeal continues while a decision is awaited, and the team is focused on the next match.