Juan Francisco Martinez Modesto known as Nino, a former captain and enduring figure for Elche CF, was honored at a council meeting this Monday by the Spanish Footballers Association (AFE). The organization celebrated his career and the values he carried as an athlete, highlighting the influence he left on and off the pitch.
David Aganzo, the president of AFE, announced the decision to award Nino the recognition last Friday. Although the ex-player could not attend the gathering in Madrid, the trophy was delivered to him with great pride. Nino’s leadership during his time with Elche was repeatedly acknowledged as a cornerstone of the club’s identity. He expressed his gratitude and humility, noting that this honor reaffirmed the respect he has earned within the football community. The award signals broad acknowledgment of his long-standing contributions and the positive impact he had during his professional journey.
Nino has built a career spanning more than two decades, predominantly with Elche. His path also includes moments in Tenerife and Osasuna, clubs where he developed as a player and demonstrated the perseverance that marked his style. With Osasuna, he contributed to promotion to the top tier and competed at the highest level of Spanish football. The period of his life on the field was defined by tenacity, goal scoring, and leadership, traits that the football world continues to remember as part of his legacy. He stepped away from playing following the 2020-2021 season, closing a chapter that saw him guide Elche’s green-and-white colors toward new horizons in the top flight.
Nowadays, Nino is pursuing a new direction in football by stepping into coaching. He recently earned the title of national coach, a credential enabling him to manage teams across all categories. In the latest season, he contributed to the development of Elche’s academy structure, finishing a campaign with encouraging results for a squad largely composed of young players. The experience served as a learning period for the future, especially as he prepared to navigate the formal requirements of his coaching career and pursue further education in the field. This transition reflects a broader trend among former players seeking to apply their knowledge and leadership to nurturing upcoming talents.
As he contemplates the next steps, Nino awaits a meeting with Elche’s leadership to discuss his long-term role within the club. The club’s owner, Christian Bragarnik, has repeatedly stated an interest in including Nino in the project vision. The conversations emphasize a willingness to explore how the former captain can contribute to both the present squad and the club’s broader development strategy. Bragarnik has made it clear that there is no rush and that the decision will reflect what best serves the club and its players. Nino remains open and patient, prioritizing growth, education, and the chance to impart his experience to younger generations involved with the Ilicitano setup. His goal remains to support grassroots football and the development of players who carry the green and white banner with pride, demonstrating an ongoing commitment to the sport beyond his playing days. This sentiment resonates with fans and stakeholders who remember his leadership on the field and now anticipate his impact in coaching and mentorship roles that shape the future of Elche and its academy system .