Elche CF is preparing to face Real Sociedad this Saturday at Martínez Valero with a potentially modified lineup after their difficult start to the season. Manager Sebastián Anselmi is considering several changes to the starting eleven after the team gathered just one point from the first three matchdays of LaLiga EA Sports.

The Franjiverdes currently sit 19th in the standings, with one point from three losses and one draw. Their record shows three goals scored and nine conceded, resulting in a -6 goal difference. This places them eight points behind leaders Barcelona ahead of the weekend's fixture.

What changes might Anselmi make?

The 3-2 defeat to Racing de Santander in the last match has prompted tactical reflection. The defence, which has leaked nine goals, is the main area of focus. The team is expected to adopt a 5-3-2 formation to try and contain a potent Real Sociedad attack. In goal, Matías Dituro would keep his place.

The defensive block could consist of Tete Morente and Germán Valera on the flanks. Víctor Chust would be the central axis, accompanied by Pedro Bigas or new signing Kevin Lomónaco. Buba Sangaré would complete the back five. The four last-minute signings -Revivo, Lomónaco, Rubén Sánchez and Thomas Lemar- arrived with few training sessions and their starting status is not confirmed, according to the outlet.

How is the midfield shaping up?

In the engine room, Gonzalo Villar has a guaranteed spot. The other interior midfield position is contested by Marc Aguado, Ali Houary and the aforementioned Thomas Lemar. On the wing, Jon Morcillo, who has been performing well, and Lucas Cepeda are vying for a place. Facundo Buonanotte would operate as the attacking midfielder, tasked with creating chances for the forwards.

In attack, the starting duo is yet to be decided. Ezequiel Ponce and Fer Niño are the options for Anselmi. The choice will depend on the game plan and the need for more mobility or presence in the box. The full squad is available in our squad section.

What do we know about the opponent, Real Sociedad?

Real Sociedad, managed by Imanol Alguacil, will likely line up in a 4-3-3. They have the confirmed absence of Álvaro Odriozola, injured until October, and a doubt over Pablo Marín. At right-back, Jon Aramburu and Héctor Fort are competing, while Sergio Gómez would occupy the left side.

The central defence would feature Igor Zubeldia and Jon Martín. In midfield, Yangel Herrera and Beñat Turrientes are fighting for one spot, with Carlos Soler and Luka Sucic as certain starters. In attack, Takefusa Kubo is a starter on the right, Mikel Oyarzabal is almost certain to play, and Gonçalo Guedes and Ander Barrenetxea are competing for the left wing. Orri Óskarsson is an option up front.

What is the context of Elche's season?

The start to the league campaign has been tough. With a recent form of LLD (Loss, Loss, Defeat), the pressure to secure the first three points is high. The next fixture after the Real Sociedad match is a difficult away trip to Athletic Club, ninth in the table, on September 12th. Fans can check the full schedule on our fixtures page.

The arrival of the four new players aims to change the dynamic. However, their lack of time together is a factor Anselmi must weigh. The final decision on the lineup will be known a few hours before kick-off, scheduled for 21:30 on Saturday, September 7th at the Estadio Martínez Valero.