Elche CF captain Josan Ferrández was released without charge on Wednesday after his wife withdrew a domestic violence complaint, ending a legal process that saw him detained since Tuesday. The 36-year-old club legend was placed before a court after spending the night at a Guardia Civil barracks in Callosa de Segura, where he lives.
The couple, who have two daughters together, issued a joint statement to clarify the situation. "In light of the information that has emerged in recent hours about our personal situation, we wish to state jointly that we are immersed in a divorce process," said Josan Ferrández and Rosa Duarte. They added that "regarding the information and speculation that has been generated, we want to point out that, at this time, there is no open judicial proceeding affecting Josan Ferrández."
Rosa Duarte filed the complaint on Tuesday, including alleged WhatsApp messages and photos of bruises. However, she decided to withdraw it hours later, leading the Number 1 Court of the Violence Against Women Section in Orihuela to provisionally dismiss the case. This swift legal resolution allows Ferrández to refocus on his sporting career at a delicate time for the team.
Elche CF currently sit 18th in La Liga, with just five points from seven games. The team urgently needs points to climb out of the relegation spots, and the stability of its captains is key. Josan Ferrández, who renewed for one more season, is in his tenth campaign with the club, having achieved three promotions.
A native of Crevillente and very popular in Alicante province, where he was the town crier for Elche's festivities last year, the midfielder must now reconnect with the dressing room dynamics. Manager Sebastián Beccacece will have him available for the clash against Celta, a vital match in the battle for survival. The judicial resolution thus arrives during a week of preparation for a match Elche cannot afford to lose.
More detail at ABC Deportes
