Francis Rodriguez, a technician for Elche CF, stood before the traditional press conference ahead of tomorrow’s league opener at 9:30 in the Benito Villamarín stadium against Betis. The Franchiverde coach spoke sparingly during the entire preseason and only appeared publicly at its outset. Consequently, Elche was asked to assess the squad facing the 2022-2023 season, review the incoming transfers, and outline targets for the new campaign.
Almería’s coach weighed in on whether he is satisfied with the established squad and commented on the new signings. He noted a different right-back profile was found with Pol Lirola, praised Roger Martí as an experienced player, and likewise highlighted Carlos Clerc and Álex Collado as capable footballers.
Francis commented that the market and pre-season were demanding. There were moments when he hoped to finalize deals that could not be completed by clubs of origin or by players who eventually chose other destinations. Nevertheless, he expressed overall satisfaction with how things unfolded.
The Elche coach stopped short of claiming to possess a strictly better squad than last season. He said the roster is different and more versatile, and stressed the need to prove it is better. He recalled that the prior season’s group fought well and earned the necessary points toward the goal, and expressed hope of achieving similar results this season.
One disappointment for the coach was not getting the new additions into action sooner and managing several injuries during more than a month of training. He acknowledged that every coach wants players to adapt quickly, but emphasized satisfaction with preserving the core from last year and the considerable effort invested. He noted there was no pre-season routine due to injuries, but insisted that excuses were unnecessary. Those who joined and those who stayed were the best for him, and he affirmed the team is ready to begin the competition.
Wounded and in pain
Regarding the injured players and those who are carrying issues, he expressed happiness with Boyé’s progress and hoped he could join the group next week. Pastore has completed two training sessions with the squad and is progressing well. Although the preseason fell short of expectations, the mindset of El Flaco remains strong. Verdú is also doing well and should return soon, while Raúl Guti’s progression will be watched closely after a midweek issue. If Guti is not 100 percent, he will not travel.
When asked about the upcoming first match against Betis, Francis acknowledged the challenge, noting Betis are formidable opponents playing at home with their fans. They might rest some players, but can still field a lineup capable of competing in Europe. The coach emphasized that Elche had prepared thoroughly to contest the game and pursue a positive result.
Finally, Francis sent a heartfelt message of thanks to the fans for their strong season-ticket response. He stated that the team shares a clear objective of permanence and appreciated the support demonstrated by more than 22,000 subscribers. He praised the loyalty of Elche supporters, acknowledged preseason challenges, and invited everyone to enjoy the journey together. [Source: Elche CF press conference notes]
Francis Rodriguez, a technician for Elche CF, stood before the traditional press conference ahead of tomorrow’s league opener at 9:30 in the Benito Villamarín stadium against Betis. The Franchiverde coach spoke sparingly during the entire preseason and only appeared publicly at its outset. Consequently, Elche was asked to assess the squad facing the 2022-2023 season, review the incoming transfers, and outline targets for the new campaign.
Almería’s coach weighed in on whether he is satisfied with the established squad and commented on the new signings. He noted a different right-back profile was found with Pol Lirola, praised Roger Martí as an experienced player, and likewise highlighted Carlos Clerc and Álex Collado as capable footballers.
Francis commented that the market and pre-season were demanding. There were moments when he hoped to finalize deals that could not be completed by clubs of origin or by players who eventually chose other destinations. Nevertheless, he expressed overall satisfaction with how things unfolded.
The Elche coach stopped short of claiming to possess a strictly better squad than last season. He said the roster is different and more versatile, and stressed the need to prove it is better. He recalled that the prior season’s group fought well and earned the necessary points toward the goal, and expressed hope of achieving similar results this season.
One disappointment for the coach was not getting the new additions into action sooner and managing several injuries during more than a month of training. He acknowledged that every coach wants players to adapt quickly, but emphasized satisfaction with preserving the core from last year and the considerable effort invested. He noted there was no pre-season routine due to injuries, but insisted that excuses were unnecessary. Those who joined and those who stayed were the best for him, and he affirmed the team is ready to begin the competition.
Wounded and in pain
Regarding the injured players and those who are carrying issues, he expressed happiness with Boyé’s progress and hoped he could join the group next week. Pastore has completed two training sessions with the squad and is progressing well. Although the preseason fell short of expectations, the mindset of El Flaco remains strong. Verdú is also doing well and should return soon, while Raúl Guti’s progression will be watched closely after a midweek issue. If Guti is not 100 percent, he will not travel.
When asked about the upcoming first match against Betis, Francis acknowledged the challenge, noting Betis are formidable opponents playing at home with their fans. They might rest some players, but can still field a lineup capable of competing in Europe. The coach emphasized that Elche had prepared thoroughly to contest the game and pursue a positive result.
Finally, Francis sent a heartfelt message of thanks to the fans for their strong season-ticket response. He stated that the team shares a clear objective of permanence and appreciated the support demonstrated by more than 22,000 subscribers. He praised the loyalty of Elche supporters, acknowledged preseason challenges, and invited everyone to enjoy the journey together. [Source: Elche CF press conference notes]