Homecoming Kings: Villar, Morente and Sangaré buzzing to be back at Elche
Three players return to Elche with different stories but shared enthusiasm, as the club strengthens squad for La Liga survival push under Sarabia.
Three familiar faces have returned to Estadio Manuel Martínez Valero with beaming smiles, as Gonzalo Villar, Tete Morente and local lad Buba Sangaré were unveiled as Elche players.
The Homecoming Trio
Elche have been busy in the January window, bringing back some proper talent to bolster their squad for the relegation dogfight. Villar and Sangaré arrive on loan deals with purchase options, while Morente has committed his future to the club until 2028 with a permanent move.
Club director Pedro Schinocca made it clear during the presentation that all three players made significant efforts to make these moves happen - music to the ears of the Elche faithful.
Villar: Third Time’s the Charm
At 27, Gonzalo Villar begins his third stint at Elche, arriving from Croatian outfit Dinamo Zagreb. The midfielder couldn’t hide his delight, describing the move as “coming back home” and expressing hope that his six-month loan could become permanent.
Villar believes he returns a more complete and mature footballer than the one who left six years ago. Interestingly, he was quick to clarify he’s not simply Rodrigo Mendoza’s replacement (who departed for Atleti) but aims to make his own mark on the team.
Morente: The Prodigal Winger Returns
Tete Morente considers Elche his spiritual home, noting it’s the only club where he’s played four consecutive seasons. The 29-year-old winger returns after an 18-month Italian job at Lecce, with negotiations for his return actually beginning last summer.
The La Línea-born player has been primarily brought in to strengthen the right wing, though he’s comfortable on either flank. Morente reckons his time abroad has added maturity to his game - something Elche will hope translates to performances on the pitch.
Sangaré: Living the Dream
For 18-year-old Buba Sangaré, this move is proper Charlie and Dover - the youngster finally gets to represent his hometown club. “This is where my home and my people are,” he said with obvious emotion.
The right-back arrives on loan from Roma, where he trained with the first team but never made his debut. His arrival is timely, filling the gap left by Álvaro Núñez’s departure to Celta and Héctor Fort’s injury. Despite his youth, Sangaré exudes confidence: “Pressure doesn’t get to me. I’ll give my maximum.”
Both Villar and Morente should be available for Saturday’s trip to Real Sociedad, while Sangaré will need a few more weeks to recover from minor physical issues.
Manager Eder Sarabia will be chuffed to bits with these reinforcements as Elche battle to secure their La Liga status.