Sarabia demands more fight as Elche look to snap poor run against in-form Osasuna
Elche manager Eder Sarabia believes his side's performances deserve more points as they prepare for Friday's crucial home clash with Osasuna.
Elche gaffer Eder Sarabia reckons his side’s league position doesn’t tell the whole story as they prepare to welcome an in-form Osasuna to the Martínez Valero on Friday night.
Current Form
The francs are having a right mare in 2026, with a paltry eleven points from their last 45 available – the kind of form that gives managers the old brown bread. But Sarabia isn’t hitting the panic button just yet, despite the poor run of results.
“This team has fewer points than their play deserves,” Sarabia insisted during his pre-match presser, showing that while he’s feeling the pressure, he’s still backing his lads to turn things around.
Friday Night Lights
Elche will be desperate to get back to winning ways in front of their home support, with Sarabia making it crystal clear what he expects from his players:
- Energy and intensity from the first whistle
- A performance that connects with the fans
- Mental fortitude in crucial moments
“We need energy, spark and freshness from the beginning. I’m convinced it will be noticeable that we’re switched on and will connect with the crowd,” Sarabia explained, clearly hoping the Martinez Valero faithful can be their twelfth man.
Defensive Details
While Elche haven’t been in the relegation zone all season (23 matchdays and counting), their recent form has them glancing nervously over their shoulders. Sarabia acknowledged the small margins that have been costing them:
“The team needs to compete better, but ‘compete’ is a very broad word. In many aspects of our game, we’re very good or even better than three months ago. It’s other small details that are costing us points.”
Osasuna Challenge
The visitors arrive in their best form of the season, presenting a significant challenge for the struggling hosts. Sarabia was quick to highlight the threat posed:
“It’ll be a tough match against an opponent enjoying their best moment, at least in terms of results. They’re a team with energy and conviction who know how to suffer and win matches.”
Controversy Clarification
Sarabia also took time to address controversial comments made after their defeat in San Sebastián, where some interpreted his words as making excuses about training facilities.
“Perhaps it’s about not wanting to face reality. I may have explained myself poorly or you didn’t want to understand me. Anyone who understood that we lost on Saturday because they train at Zubieta and we train at Iborra lacks capacity for understanding.”
The pressure continues to mount on Sarabia, but Friday night under the lights offers the perfect opportunity for Elche to silence doubters and kickstart their survival push.