Sebastián Beccacece Becomes Elche’s New Coach: Vision for Rising Above Relegation

I am committed to hard work to steer the team out of its current situation. Argentine coach Sebastián Beccacece has taken the helm at Elche CF, a personal wager by the club owner to confront the slim odds of relegation and aim for a swift return to the top tier. “I am grateful for this challenge, for this opportunity, for Elche, for Christian and Sergio Mantecón. We’re already feeling positive and grateful for what lies ahead”, Beccacece stated after accepting the role.

Sebastián Beccacece, Elche’s new coach

JA Galvanized

In October…

The plan at the outset differed. Christian Bragarnik had already intended for the coach to take charge after dismissing the previous manager. Beccacece himself noted: “I see a clear chance to develop a sports project that could not be realized in October. This moment presents a great opportunity. We will take it day by day, match by match, but with the aim of improving throughout the year, because that is why we are here. The commitment will be total.”

Beccacece during today’s practice for Elche CF AXEL ALVAREZ

Beccacece explained that opportunity arrives in tough times, and the work will be intense to turn the situation around. He defined a coaching staff that shares a strong sense of duty to the club. “We are a working group with a deep commitment to the institution. In these first days, we quickly connected with the core values of humility, passion, and devotion that characterize this city. I come from Rosario, a place where football is lived with that same intensity. The president spoke of a city with a distinct founding spirit. We act as a team to build a shared idea that the players and fans can feel represented by.”

Presentation

The new coach was introduced this morning by Sergio Mantecón. The club’s technical secretary, Joaquín Buitrago, apologized for the president’s absence and thanked the previous coach and his squad for their conduct. He acknowledged that Beccacece embodies a profile the club has sought for some time and expressed confidence that starting a new path together would be successful.

What did you find?

Beccacece noted that he found a squad with a commendable attitude, ready to absorb new ideas and put in the effort. He conceded the current moment is not ideal, but pledged hard work to climb out of it. “We have the manager’s full support and the commitment of the group that has come to guide these players.”

Beccacece tests the team with four missing and young players from Elche CF

VL Deltel

How do you meet the remaining 12 matches?

The aim was to keep Beccacece at the helm for the following season, which influenced his thoughts: “This is the moment to dive into the team. From June or July, we could begin laying groundwork for what can be done now.” He added that the profile and idea would be defined in relation to the opponents. “We want a versatile team that can adapt to every moment, obey the system, and grow into stars when given their chance.”

Game system

Beccacece described a game philosophy centered on time and space, with a flexible system that can shift between formations. He spoke of a willingness to use wing backs, three defenders, or a flat back line depending on the moment. He emphasized clarity about different phases of play and noted the club’s historic 100th year as a motivation rather than a burden. The squad showed strong desire and quick assimilation to embrace the shared idea. “There is a hunger to get the team moving in the right direction,” he said.

In the present case…

Beccacece stressed that regaining the players’ trust and self-esteem is paramount. The group had managed to stay in the league for two years, and the challenge is to recover that memory. He urged constant focus on the objectives, insisting that calm and steady progress would be essential for success.

What did Bragarnik ask you?

Bragarnik knows what Beccacece can do because they shared a period at Defense and Justice. The coach described a close bond with the players and a sincere, attentive approach. He stressed his intent to keep the core group cohesive and supportive, while not trying to control outside opinions. The team would be united, with every member contributing to the common goal.

What do you want from the fans?

Beccacece acknowledged the painful moments the club has faced and thanked the fans for their loyalty. He asked for continued support, recognizing that it is vital for the team. The fans have welcomed him warmly, and he emphasized that the coach is part of Elche and that unity among supporters, players, and staff will drive the club forward.

Do you find it difficult to adapt to Spanish football?

Having spent two decades coaching in South America across countries such as Peru, Chile, and Argentina, Beccacece believes football is universal. He noted that while leagues vary, certain patterns repeat across borders, and he feels at home navigating those rhythms. This comfort comes from a strong sense of belonging to the profession and a clear, shared path forward for Elche. [Source: internal club communications and press conference records, 2024]