Unlike in recent seasons, Hércules is not seeking a mid-season pivot in the winter market. The strong performances from key attacking players have led coach Rubén Torrecilla to bolster other areas instead. Early signings included Javi Moreno and Richmon Dapaah, players deemed essential to fortify the zone the coach has targeted. Concerns over a potential relapse in the Alicante player’s fitness and rising competition within the squad pushed the coach to consider new additions.
Both newcomers are training with the rest of the squad and look poised to debut in the seventh round of the campaign. Their first big test could arrive in an exceptional clash against Lleida, a pivotal moment in the race for the winter championship and leadership in the league.
The club has made it clear that the central defense position is well covered. Marcos Mendes and Agustín Coscia provide solid options. The Guinean striker emerged as the club’s top scorer with six goals despite injuries, while the Argentine forward netted two goals after joining late due to a long-term Achilles tendon injury. His finishing instincts remain exceptional, and the forward line has a natural goal-scoring feel. This improved confidence among strikers is, for the first time in a long stretch, a source of real relief for the club, which does not feel compelled to chase a winter target unless a rare, highly valuable opportunity arises—because securing a costly, uncertain option is not a priority in this window.
Javi Moreno and Sarkodie Dapaah are Hércules’ first signings of the winter window
Cesar Hernandez
Following the announcements on Wednesday, the club shifted focus to strengthening the defense, a key area after conceding too many goals. La Nucía centre-back Álex Salto has become Hércules’ main target. Salto had drawn attention from the blue-and-whites last summer, but the club ultimately added other centre-backs and he stayed with La Nucía. The possible departure of Sergi Molina would open room for a new player. There is also an effort to secure a guaranteed right-back to replace Samu Vázquez. Strengthening these two positions is seen as essential for the second half of the season in January. The blue-and-white squad is moving quickly with a clear plan, guided by a coach with definite ideas, and the feeling around the team is positive.
From defeat to hope
Cesar Hernandez
Preparation against Torrellano
Hércules will play a friendly against Athletic Club Torrellano this Friday at 10:30 at Rico Pérez, behind closed doors. Two new players, Javi Moreno and Richmon Dapaah, are set to feature. After the match the squad will take a short break before returning on day 2 to resume preparations for the seventh round in Lleida.
Hércules closed 2023 as one of the poor performing seasons in its centenary era, though some momentum has returned with the new dynamics. Although the year began strongly, promotion to a higher tier remained elusive, and there were concerns about sustaining momentum. The near-end struggles in the penultimate round marked a tough spell for the team.
2023 began with renewed optimism after Lolo Escobar took charge and steered the squad toward promotion contention through a run of positive results. The departure before the new season and the arrival of Torrecilla marked a turning point, bringing improvement and a clearer sense of direction.