Machín Begins at Elche and Maps Out a LaLiga Debut Against Atlético
Pablo Machín stepped into the Elche CF dugout after a brief pause, lifting the team with a morning of purposeful training. His address to the squad set the tone for the upcoming match, signaling that the second pre-season phase had concluded and the focus now shifted squarely to LaLiga Santander. There was a distinct air of celebration from the King’s Cup win, which had already energized the club’s atmosphere as the team prepared to showcase itself on the big stage against its next rival, Atlético de Madrid, at the Metropolitano.
Elche Is Short on Depth, and Machín Rises to the Challenge
Elche faces a squeeze in the squad depth as Machín plans his approach. The morning session highlighted a need for resilience and tactical clarity as the coach outlined the plan for life without several key players. The objective was clear: strengthen the group, energize the training ground, and prepare the squad for what’s ahead in the league. [Citation: MATÍAS SEGARRA]
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During the training session that began after 10:30 am at Díez Iborra, four first-team regulars were ruled out of action. Nico suffered a wrist fracture, Pol Lirola faced a hamstring setback, John Chetauya endured a fractured fibula, and Josan dealt with a torn adductor. To accelerate recovery, these players engaged in private sessions at the Martínez Valero stadium, under the supervision of physiotherapists, either in the gym or on the grass with the team. The intent was simple: keep athletes moving and ready for the road ahead. [Citation: MATÍAS SEGARRA]
Local Players in Focus
To compensate for absences, Machín summoned three players from the club’s youth ranks—Manu Cocca, Álex Alfaro, and Carles Marco. Also joining the session was goalkeeper Juanpe, who trained alongside Edgar Badia and Áxel Werner as the group warmed up on the field. The presence of these youngsters underscored Machín’s commitment to integrating homegrown talent into the senior squad’s plans. [Citation: MATÍAS SEGARRA]
Speaking and Exercises
The day’s work began with a comprehensive team talk from Machín, followed by a lively and positive warm-up. The goalkeepers carried out a separate session, while the rest of the group focused on tactical drills and physical preparation in anticipation of the upcoming fixture. The training emphasized cohesion, pressing structure, and positional understanding—elements Machín plans to translate onto the field when the match against Atlético kicks off. [Citation: MATÍAS SEGARRA]
LaLiga Schedule Preview: Machín’s Debut Plans vs Atlético de Madrid
In the next seven days, Elche will head to Madrid to meet Atlético in LaLiga Santander’s second leg. The game is set for the evening, with kickoff at 21:30. The date marks a significant moment for Machín and the squad as they step into a high-stakes arena against a formidable opponent and aim to deliver a strong performance away from home. [Citation: MATÍAS SEGARRA]