Buba Sangaré will be available for Elche CF's LaLiga match against Celta Vigo on October 11th, having recovered from the muscular issue that forced him off in the last game. The right-back was substituted in the 35th minute of the 1-3 win at Espanyol, but the club's medical staff have ruled out a serious injury and cleared him for the next fixture.
The Franjiverdes, sitting 18th in the table with five points, are using the international break to fine-tune their play. Manager Martín Anselmi confirmed the positive news regarding Sangaré. "Sangaré will be in a position to play upon the competition's return for Martín Anselmi's squad, which will happen on October 11th, against Celta Vigo at the Martínez Valero stadium," the coach said.
The one-match suspension for Fede Redondo, sent off in the last match, forces adjustments at centre-back. In the win over Espanyol, Anselmi already tested Javi Morcillo alongside Víctor Chust in defence, with Pedro Bigas on the bench. The potential departure of David Affengruber opens the door for more involvement from Kevin Lomónaco, signed this summer in a deal worth around four million euros for 80% of his rights.
Lomónaco travelled with the team to Barcelona but was not in the matchday squad, and now emerges as a real option to bolster the backline. The club's financial situation, with an outstanding debt from Ivan Marcone and an obligation to Red Bull Bragantino for another defender, adds complexity, but the Argentine player is ready to contribute.
On the right wing, Yago de Santiago is also pushing for minutes against his former club. The winger, a product of Celta's academy, enters the break with the coaching staff's confidence after overcoming initial fitness issues. With a contract expiring in June, the player who joined from Tottenham in 2024 has made 27 official appearances over the last two seasons and is looking to establish himself.
The team's attacking output, with 11 goals scored in seven matchdays, is a positive. Top scorer Fer Niño, with five goals, was key in the last win with a brace.
Anselmi's tactical system showed flexibility against Espanyol, with Sangaré and Roy Revivo as attacking full-backs and Germán Valera covering the flank defensively. This setup, which saw the team 2-0 down at halftime but complete a comeback, will be a foundation for the clash with 11th-placed Celta.
The squad completes its preparation with an eye on an October schedule that could be decisive. The next fixture at the Martínez Valero is a chance to pick up points at home again and move away from the relegation places. The full season plan, including upcoming fixtures, is available for supporters.
More detail at Alicante Plaza
